Coco Chair: Upcycling Shopping Trolleys into Outdoor Seating

Transforming Urban Problems into Functional Art

The Coco Chair is a unique piece of furniture that showcases the potential of upcycling in urban environments. By utilizing old shopping trolleys, the chair not only reduces waste but also raises awareness about the socioeconomic challenges faced in cities.

The chair features a galvanized steel frame that offers excellent weather resistance, ensuring its durability in outdoor settings. The seat, back, and armrests are crafted from Teak or Iroko wood, adding a touch of elegance to the industrial design.

To create the Coco Chair, Rowen employed a meticulous process. The steel frame was cut and hand bent using pliers and homemade jigs, avoiding the need for welding that would alter the raw steel finish. The steel was then carefully brushed with sandpaper to achieve a warm satin finish. The wooden components were cut, routed, and sanded before being fitted to the steel chassis. The seat-pan was made in two parts and pressed together with 200kg of force, resulting in a seamless union.

Measuring 600mm x 800mm x 900mm, the Coco Chair is designed to provide comfort and functionality in outdoor spaces. Its unique form not only serves as a conversation starter but also prompts reflection on the challenges faced in urban environments.

The Coco Chair project began in August 2015 and was completed in September 2016 in Dublin. Throughout the design process, Rowen conducted extensive research on upcycled metallic structures, developing innovative techniques for creating fixtures and ensuring structural integrity using only hand tools and cold-forming methods.

Despite the challenges of designing a chair without welding or any additive/adhesive processes, Rowen's dedication and patience paid off. The Coco Chair stands as a testament to the possibilities of sustainable design and the power of creativity in addressing urban issues.

The Coco Chair, designed by Moses Rowen, is a Bronze A' Design Award winner in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category. This prestigious accolade recognizes the chair's outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. The Coco Chair not only enhances the quality of life but also contributes to making the world a better place.