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May 25, 2023

donatas žukauskas breathes new life into paper for tripod side table

Challenging conventional notions of furniture design, Donatas Žukauskas

Challenging conventional notions of furniture design, Donatas Žukauskas harnesses the transformative nature of recycled paper and cardboard to present his sustainable collection of side tables titled TRIPOD. Incorporating these often overlooked materials into the design and manufacturing process, Žukauskas is able to emulate the raw natural textures and durable strength of wood to create a visually appealing, durable, and eco-friendly alternative. Extending beyond mere functional pieces and transcending into the realm of art, the tables offer more than just a surface for placing objects — becoming focal points within a room and adding a unique touch into any space they occupy.

all images courtesy of Donatas Žukauskas

Lithuanian designer Donatas Žukauskas utilized paper pulp and cardboard as the primary material — a surprising choice given paper's association with fragility — yet through careful experimentation and the integration of supplementary components, the resulting mixture inherits the desirable qualities of wood. The new material boasts a mottled natural texture reminiscent of its organic counterpart, and equal strength ensuring its longevity and durability.

This texture infuses a tactile dimension to the tables, providing a sensory experience combined with visual appeal. The material further exhibits a slight elasticity, granting the tables a level of resilience that enhances their longevity, unlike rigid materials that may be prone to splitting or crumbling under pressure. The material's unique composition also ensures that it retains its aesthetic appeal over time. The fusion of paper pulp and cardboard creates a surface that does not change color or degrade with age, and is resistant to the effects of moisture and dust — able to be simply cleaned with a wipe of a damp cloth.

Donatas Žukauskas harnesses the transformative nature of recycled paper and cardboard

the new material encapsulates the raw natural textures and durable strength of wood

a visually appealing, durable, and eco-friendly manufacturing alternative