B-Shape Concrete: Public Seating with Ecological FeaturesRecovery of architectural waste through regenerative concrete
Recovery of architectural waste is a significant environmental challenge, especially in developing countries. The Product Design R&D Center of SWJTU has come up with an innovative solution - B-Shape Concrete. This unique design utilizes concrete waste as the aggregate for precast concrete, creating outdoor public seating with ecological features.
B-Shape Concrete stands out from other designs in its use of regenerative concrete, which not only saves transportation costs and land expenses but also contributes to environmental sustainability. The modular elements in the design allow for multiple display possibilities, making it suitable for various environments. It can function as both a seat and a table, providing flexibility and versatility.
One of the standout features of B-Shape Concrete is the installation of QR codes, which enable the seat to provide location and multi-information services. This integration of technology reflects the characteristics of an information society and enhances the user experience.
The realization of B-Shape Concrete involves shattering the architectural waste of concrete and using it as aggregate for precast concrete. The materials are proportioned, and molds are created to produce the concrete public facilities. The use of 2-D barcodes facilitates the spread of information related to maps and regional culture.
The specifications of B-Shape Concrete include its combinable nature, with product dimensions of 500mm*420mm*550mm. It is packaged without any additional packaging materials, and the production process involves the use of molds.
Designed by Professor Huang Tao and a team of talented designers including Luo Xin, Zhao Xianan, Qiu Liwei, and Wei Guangchao, B-Shape Concrete offers a sustainable solution to the problem of architectural waste. Its ability to adapt to different environments and its integration of technology make it a standout design in the field of public seating.
B-Shape Concrete was completed in June 2015 and was exhibited at the Gallery Square of Southwest Jiaotong University. The design was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Social Design category in 2016. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill demonstrated by B-Shape Concrete.
Project Details and Credits
Project Designers: Qiu Liwei
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Luo Xin, 2015.
Image #2: Designer Luo Xin, 2015.
Image #3: Designer Luo Xin, 2015.
Image #4: Designer Luo Xin, 2015.
Image #5: Designer Luo Xin, 2015.
Project Team Members: Professor: Huang Tao
Designer: Luo Xin
Designer: Zhao Xianan
Designer: Qiu Liwei
Designer: Wei Guangchao
Project Name: B-Shape Concrete
Project Client: Qiu Liwei