Thoughtful design for a sustainable future

Our challenge

Creating a chair entirely from recycled and recyclable materials

Considering sustainability, the future of the planet, and the responsible use of raw materials is now integral to decision-making for companies worldwide. This involves the entire product life cycle: material selection, production processes, long-term use, and component reuse. Design and industry must collaborate for a truly sustainable future.

The challenge with the Byo chair was to develop a collection made from recycled and recyclable materials with the fewest pieces possible to limit environmental impact. However, this could not compromise the ergonomic principles we've applied at Alegre Design for over twenty years. Sustainability and user comfort were equally prioritized.

The impact

A connection to people and a commitment to a greener future

Byo chair is lightweight, comfortable, durable, and sound-absorbing. Its unique felt texture evokes a connection to nature, while its slender steel frame is designed for reuse, emphasizing repairability and recyclability with only four screws required for assembly. Byo's design is versatile, making it suitable for a range of interior spaces, where it also improves acoustics by reducing noise.

Together with Delaoliva, we developed prototypes to create an innovative, continuous seat and backrest shell made from a single sheet of recycled felt, derived from 100% post-consumer PET plastic bottles. Extensive testing ensured that the chair met ergonomic standards without compromising on sustainability.

Lightweight, sustainable, and acoustically smart

Design journey

Prioritizing the use of minimal materials

Byo chair merges innovative design with sustainability, creating an intuitive connection with users while embodying a commitment to the planet. Its serene feel, paired with neutral-toned finishes, evokes authenticity and simplicity. At Alegre Design, we conducted a comprehensive Color, Materials, and Finish (CMF) study to ensure that all selected finishes aligned with the product's vision before its official launch.

Alegre Design and Delaoliva collaborated intensively throughout the design and development process of the Byo chair, focusing on the unique properties of recycled PET felt. Multiple visits to the factory were conducted to determine the optimal felt characteristics, ensuring durability, comfort, and support for prolonged use. Our team meticulously studied the production process to guarantee aesthetic consistency and efficient manufacturing. The result is a chair that balances sustainability with practicality, providing an eco-friendly solution without compromising on design or functionality.

Result of an approach that emphasizes the use of the minimum necessary materials