The Citarum Current Collection
Furniture collection created from upcycled waste plastics, inspired by promoting material value and care for our waterways.
Ideation
The design process involved a comprehensive and professional approach to meet two distinct briefs. Initially, ideation sketching was used to brainstorm and refine concepts where the focus was on creating a chair that meets ergonomic standards and accommodates a wide range of users. Key features like dual seating heights and a wider seat were incorporated to enhance comfort and functionality.
Prototyping
Concept direction
Design for manufacturing
The collection's design process emphasises the efficient use of materials. The Citarum Current Collection is manufactured by CNC machining 2 sheets made from recycled plastic. By creating secondary products like the stool and shoe rack from leftover plastic sheet parts , the project maximises resource utilisation. This approach reduces the need for additional raw materials and highlights the potential of upcycled materials.
Plywood prototype
A full-scale plywood prototype was constructed as a part of my furniture elective. It’s construction allowed for detailed assessment and adjustments to the assembly process. This stage ensured the joints were sturdy and the construction process was smooth.
Production in Indonesia
In collaboration with Monash University and the Citarum Action Research Program (CARP), the design was selected to be prototyped in Indonesia with Precious Plastic Bandung. Here, the furniture was produced from locally sourced waste plastic. The Kawung pattern on the chair worked as a connection between local culture and broader environmental themes.
Final stage
The chair design was adjusted to allow for even easier assembly and a new wave pattern. This new pattern not only represents the waterways from the rivers in Indonesia to the shores of Australia but also reduces plastic waste during production by requiring less cutting and eliminating offcuts.
This design has been recognised as a 2024 Victorian Premier’s Design Awards Finalist!
