Müll: Transforming Plastic Trash into Functional Furniture

Reducing Waste and Inspiring Recycling

The inspiration for Müll came from Zufelt's observation of plastic grocery bags littered everywhere during his hikes and runs through the city. Motivated to make a difference, he started collecting these bags and initiated recycling drives. Zufelt's goal was to create something beautiful using only trash, with the hope that these pieces would help others see the need and beauty of recycling.

What sets Müll apart is its unique process of turning flimsy plastic bags into stable and sturdy furniture pieces. With less than 5% of plastic bags being recycled, Zufelt's project focuses on repurposing this waste material. Through months of experimentation and countless failed attempts, Zufelt perfected a process that transforms recycled plastic into full blocks of beautiful swirled patterns.

The blocks of recycled plastic serve as the raw materials for Müll's furniture pieces. Zufelt shapes these blocks into a milk stool and an end table, both of which are fully functional and durable. Strength tests have shown that the recycled plastic is just as strong, if not stronger, than typical hardwood. This innovative approach not only reduces waste but also demonstrates the potential of recycled materials in creating high-quality furniture.

Müll's milk stool measures 280mm x 280mm x 460mm, while the end table has dimensions of 360mm x 360mm x 680mm. These furniture pieces not only contribute to a sustainable lifestyle but also serve as conversation starters, highlighting the importance of recycling and the potential of repurposing waste materials.

The Müll project was initiated as Zufelt's senior thesis while obtaining his bachelor's degree in Industrial Design at Brigham Young University. It started in August 2014 and was completed in April 2015. The project was exhibited at various shows from April to July 2015, garnering attention and accolades for its innovative approach to sustainable design.

Zufelt's Müll project has received recognition in the design community, including the prestigious A' Design Award. In 2016, Müll was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category. This award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements, contributing to a better world.

Müll serves as a testament to the power of design in transforming waste into something valuable and inspiring. By repurposing plastic trash into functional furniture, Zufelt's project encourages us to rethink our consumption habits and embrace recycling as a way to create a more sustainable future.