Cork Trunk: A Unique and Sustainable Bench Design

Combining Nature, Technology, and Ergonomics

The Cork Trunk derives its inspiration from the observation of four factors: nature, recycled materials, the technological process, and ergonomics. The designer was particularly influenced by the way the cork oak tree anchors itself to the ground and its chromatism. This observation led to the use of cork as the primary material for the bench. Additionally, the recycling of cork and plastic waste further enhances the sustainability aspect of the design.

The production process of the Cork Trunk involves the use of a cork agglomerate, which is a composition of cork granulate and polyurethane. This material is recycled and consolidated through compression, heat, and the use of a binder inside a metal cylinder. The resulting cylindrical block is then cut at a ten-degree angle on one face, allowing for two possible configurations of seated positions. This unique feature provides special support and effective comfort for users.

With dimensions of 300mm wide and 450mm or 600mm high, the Cork Trunk offers a compact and versatile seating solution. Its circular lamination, which is typically used for subfloors, is repurposed to create the bench. By utilizing the waste cylinder from the production process, Miguel Arruda demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness.

The interaction with the Cork Trunk is intuitive and user-friendly. The bench can be positioned vertically, with the upper part of the cylinder serving as the seat at a ten-degree angle to the horizontal plane. Alternatively, it can be placed obliquely on the ground, with the upper surface of the cylinder providing seating at an angle of ten degrees. This design choice ensures optimal comfort and support for the coccyx area.

The Cork Trunk project started in February 2017 and was completed in August 2018 in Lisbon. The designer collaborated with Corticeira Amorim, a leading manufacturer of cork products, to realize this sustainable and aesthetically pleasing design.

Recognized for its ingenuity and commitment to sustainability, the Cork Trunk received the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2019. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills while contributing to improvements in quality of life.

The Cork Trunk is not only a functional and visually appealing bench, but also a testament to the possibilities of sustainable design. By repurposing waste materials and incorporating innovative production techniques, Miguel Arruda has created a piece that combines nature, technology, and ergonomics in a harmonious and environmentally conscious way.