Encore
A second life, by design
Originating from a variety of materials sources, this lamp aims to support design circularity through its modularity and easy disassembly.
The laser cut PLA sheets, made from recycled university 3D prints, help distribute light across the lamp and can easily be interchanged for a variety of colour arrangements and potential sizing. The LDPE light cover was recycled from bubble wrap, creating a scale like pattern that softens the light. It was sewn together using wax thread, and is easily removable for alterations or replacement. Locally sourced copper piping was cut and used as stoppers to separate the PLA sheets, and cohesively tie into the wider furniture line.
Lamp
This bedside table was designed in response to the growing volume of 3D printed plastic waste generated at Monash University.
To repurpose this material, we transformed discarded PLA prints into unique, multi-coloured sheet surfaces that serve as the table’s standout feature. These recycled sheets highlight the potential of waste materials to be reimagined into functional and beautiful design elements.
The frame incorporates other reclaimed materials, including copper plumbing pipes and salvaged redgum and merbau timber, chosen for their durability and rich natural tones. The table top is secured using threaded inserts and bolts on steel L-brackets, allowing for easy disassembly for transport or maintenance.
Bedside Table
The modular design includes a removable shelf, offering flexibility for various uses.
We sourced disused redgum sleepers, which were planed and cut to form the frame of the shelf. Using a drill press, holes were made in the redgum to hold the shelf supports. These were made by encasing wooden dowels in copper tubing, adding both strength and aesthetic appeal.
The shelves themselves were made from recycled PLA and have a marbled pattern. The shelves were planed by hand and used a linisher to fillet the edges for a smooth, polished look. The material choice prioritises sustainability and maintains cohesion with other products in the furniture line.
Shelf
The modular plant stand encourages urban gardening and makes the most of limited space. Inspired by vertical farming, the stackable units allow users to build custom arrangements that fit any area—balconies, windowsills, or backyards. The system also promotes efficient watering, as moisture from the top tier filters down to the plants below, conserving water.
The individual pots are made from recycled plastic bottles and feature a smart design: a pressable base that gently lifts the plant upward. This makes transplanting seedlings into larger pots quick and mess-free, supporting healthy growth from propagation to maturity.
Plant Stand
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Merbau and Redgum
Merbau and redgum are native Australian hardwoods widely used in construction due to their durability and availability. All wood used in our furniture line is fully reclaimed from dismantled structures.
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PLA
Polylactic acid or PLA is a plastic commonly used as 3D printer filament, making waste PLA incredibly abundant on a university campus. There are currently no dedicated PLA recycling streams in Australia, but we at Precious Plastic Monash have developed a method for recycling PLA to be used in new products such as our furniture line.
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Copper
Copper is a fully recyclable material that has been utilised in the Encore furniture line. All of the copper has been reclaimed from previous uses such as plumbing pipes.
