Fab Lab: Material Engagement and the Art of Re-upholstery

Fellowship events / Public talks / Research & Impact Event / Seminars

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Fab Lab London

  • Circular economy
  • Design
  • Sustainability

Reflecting and building on The Great Recovery’s ‘bulky waste’ Design Residency with SUEZ, we will be joined by Hackney duo Urban Upholstery and award-winning textile designer, Ella Doran, to explore how to reduce the quantity of furniture going to landfill through considered design approaches and practical re-upholstery techniques.

1 – 4pm: Activities and demonstrations with Urban Upholstery and Ella Doran

4 – 5pm: Q&A session with Ella Doran; Adrian Collins and Eunice Dickinson from Surrey Reuse Network; Hera Cottrill from Surrey County Council; Paul Arnold from Camira and Gareth Swain from SUEZ.

5 – 7pm: drinks and networking reception

Hackney duo Urban Upholstery have created a business out of rescuing and giving new life to fly-tipped furniture. They will expand on traditional Italian techniques that provide longer product life and will demonstrate their skills in action. They will also teach visitors to make their own upholstery buttons and cushions, so you will have something to take home with you!

Ella Doran is an RSA Fellow and entrepreneur. She was one of our four designers on the design residency project and helped to develop the new fabric (also made from waste!) that now covers the Survivor Sofa. Inspired by The Great Recovery and her own interest in sustainable design, Ella will exhibit some of her own materials and explain how she is adapting her practice towards a more circular economy.

This event is part of London Design Festival