Humanscale, the leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance ergonomic products is amongst a select group of companies and products that will be showcasing their designs at ‘In The Making’ a dedicated zone at Material Matters.
“In The Making,” curated by TP Bennett and The Furniture Practice, explores the dynamic relationship between materials, geography, people, and supply chains in the creation of commercial products. Set in Room 12 of the Bargehouse at Oxo Tower Wharf, the exhibition highlights the dedication and collaboration between human effort and nature in bringing these products to market.
Visitors will be guided through a series of zones featuring furniture, finishes and products, starting with an introduction to the amazing and ever evolving world of raw materials, geography, people and supply chains and culminating with an interactive space for reflection. Narrative zones will bring about supply chain transparency by looking at components & materials, design process, heritage & social, product evolution, and makers & making. Amongst the roster of 13 international exhibitors includes Humanscale, who will showcase how they design for circularity with four key principles – Simplicity, Longevity, Serviceability & Material Health.
Simplicity
Humanscale embraces simple, intuitive design that minimises complexity. This approach not only enhances users experience but also supports circularity by reducing the number of components making products easier to maintain, repair and recycle.
Longevity
Humanscale utilises durable components that can be reused multiple times, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacements, which supports a more sustainable, circular economy.
Serviceability
Products are modularly designed so that it is simple to refresh relevant components as needed, without having to disassemble or discard the entire product.
Material Health
Humanscale’s intent is for its products to be reused which is why it prioritises the use of non-toxic materials to ensure harmful chemicals, like carcinogens don’t continue to recirculate in the environment.
In 2024 Humanscale Launched Refreshed, a first-of-its kind circularity program Humanscale products are expertly restored and resold ensuring its products get a second (and perhaps third) life, in an industry where manufacturers have focused on a single use model. The UK furniture industry discards approx. 670k tonnes of furniture annually, with the bulk ending up in landfill. The refreshed program offers a tangible way for companies and individuals to put circularity into practice.
From pioneering healthy materials and transparency, introducing the industry’s first third party certified carbon negative products, to launching the world’s first chair made reclaimed fishing nets, the Refreshed Collection reaffirms Humanscale’s long-standing leadership and commitment to sustainability by creating a roadmap for circular success.