FurNature
by Sam Holmes
FurNature, an adaptable, easy to use modular furniture connection
Project Description
As our collective overconsumption of materials and resources continues to create widespread, irreversible damage to the planet’s environmental systems, it is simply not enough to for us to be creating more efficient, less harmful products. We need to be producing less products! FurNature is a design and system aimed at reducing the vast and unnecessary consumption of furniture, which is often disposed of and consumed due to social changes such as a new relationship or relocation. Furniture that can adapt to suit these new needs and situations can drastically reduce consumption. Through a simple and robust design that requires no tools for installation, FurNature is an infinitely reusable connector for the user-led creation of adaptable furniture. Utilising a unique cam-lock design, simply place it in position on the material, push the inner bracket up and close the lever to create a strong 90-degree connection.
The versatility and strength allow for the integration of pre-used and waste materials such as plywood, MDF and melamine into the user led construction of furniture. This minimises new material production needs and absorbs existing materials destined for landfills back into use streams. The accompanying online service system, designed to aid creativity, structural understanding and used material acquisition, aims to positively influence broader habitual consumptive behaviours through education and material appreciation. Simple to use, lasting in durability and aesthetics, inclusive in design, and a product and service system that reduce material and resource consumption on a broader scale. FurNature — a better way to make furniture.
A desk and stool made with recycled plywood and FurNature connectors
Simply push into place and clamp the lever for a beautiful and secure connection
An unattached FurNature connector along with a simplified construction prototype
Shelving created using FurNature connectors along with recycled melamine and plywood
Bio
With his background in CNC machining and automotive mechanics, attention to detail, functionality, and mechanical understanding are key aspects of Sam’s design practice. Passionate about quality products, enduring aesthetics, reduction of waste, and encouraging shifts away from blind consumerism, Sam believes design is about creating positive change. Though loving nothing more than a good problem to solve, he’d simply rather be outdoors than in.
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