Have a Seat: A Chair Made of Recycled Materials

An Artistic Blend of Sustainability and Design

With a passion for using recycled materials in his designs, Ari Korolainen set out to create a chair that would not only be environmentally conscious but also a work of art. The inspiration behind Have a Seat came from the desire to incorporate something new and something old, resulting in a chair that is both visually striking and sustainable.

The standout feature of Have a Seat is the use of recycled leather for the seat. This leather is made from leftover pieces collected from shoe and bag factories, giving new life to what would have otherwise been discarded. The colorful collection of recycled leather combined with the clean lines of the chair creates a visually appealing and unique aesthetic.

The chair's frame is made of wood, providing a sturdy and durable foundation. The back and seat, on the other hand, are crafted from recycled cardboard. This innovative use of materials not only reduces waste but also adds a touch of creativity to the design.

Measuring at 450 mm x 450 mm x 630 mm, Have a Seat is designed to be compact and versatile. It can easily fit into any space, whether it's a living room, office, or even a gallery. To enhance its portability, the chair can be packed into a case resembling an artist's case, complete with a handle for easy transportation.

Ari Korolainen began working on the concept for Have a Seat over a decade ago, and after months of meticulous planning and execution, the final product was realized. The chair embodies the designer's commitment to sustainability and showcases his ability to transform recycled materials into functional and visually appealing furniture.

Have a Seat was created in Lahti, Finland, with the project starting in autumn 2018 and concluding in January 2019. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted to find the ideal materials for the chair. The result is a chair that requires 5 meters of wooden frame, 5 kg of recycled cardboard, and 0.5 kg of recycled leather.

One of the unique aspects of Have a Seat is its versatility. The chair can be fastened to a wall, creating a striking display that resembles a piece of art. This feature also allows for easy removal and rearrangement, making it ideal for accommodating extra visitors or changing the layout of a space.

Have a Seat has received recognition for its exceptional design. In 2019, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate innovation, practicality, and adherence to professional and industrial standards.

With its blend of sustainability, functionality, and artistic expression, Have a Seat is a chair that not only provides a comfortable place to sit but also makes a statement about the importance of recycling and repurposing materials. It serves as a reminder that design can be both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally conscious.