Shape of Nature: Upcycled Fabric Planter

An Eco-Friendly Solution for Sustainable Planting

The designers recognized the environmental impact of excessive clothing waste and sought to find a solution. Through their research, they discovered that people were more accepting of recycled fabric products that were not in direct contact with their bodies. Additionally, fabric has the natural ability to absorb water, making it an ideal material for planters. With these insights in mind, Lin and Chen set out to create upcycled "clothes" for plants.

What sets Shape of Nature apart is the use of Hanji, a new upcycled fabric developed by the designers. Hanji is made from shredded trash clothing and wool, resulting in a sustainable material that is both durable and mold-resistant. Through extensive testing, the designers found that Hanji plant pots remained free of mold even after three months of use. The fabric also has the unique ability to absorb excess water, preventing mosquito breeding in humid environments like Taiwan. Furthermore, the Hanji plant pots can be used as transplant bags, allowing users to directly plant them in the ground without removing the plants.

The production process of Shape of Nature is entirely handmade. Users can customize the size and color of the fabric plant pot based on guidelines provided by the designers. The fabric is cut into the desired shape and then placed on a bronze frame, creating a visually appealing and functional planter.

Shape of Nature comes in two sizes: 280mm x 100mm x 300mm (black) and 230mm x 100mm x 300mm (bronze). Its design incorporates the image of mountains, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of recycled fabric and nature. The planter can be carried using the bronze handle and can be placed on a table or hung on a wall, serving as an unobtrusive eco-friendly decoration.

One of the notable features of Shape of Nature is its low maintenance. Thanks to the properties of Hanji and the minerals within the plant pot, frequent watering is not required. The capillaries in Hanji allow the roots of plants to receive sufficient air, promoting healthy growth. As a result, users can enjoy beautiful plants without the hassle of constant watering.

The Shape of Nature project began in May 2016 and was completed in April 2017 in Taiwan. It has been exhibited in various locations, including Taichung and Taipei, and was displayed at the Seoul International Invention Fair in December 2017.

Shape of Nature has received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Sustainable Products, Projects, and Green Design category in 2018. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life.

With Shape of Nature, Yun-Hsuan Lin and Pei-Yu Chen have successfully created an eco-friendly solution for sustainable planting. By repurposing fabric waste and incorporating it into a functional and aesthetically pleasing design, they have proven that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.