Landfill to New Life: AGC X UAL
We are happy to announce our furniture donation partnership with the University of Arts London!
With this collaboration, we are diligently and successfully working toward our objectives in both Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as well as Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) goals simultaneously, with remarkable efficiency and impact. By seamlessly integrating DEI and ESG initiatives, we are maximising our positive influence and advancing our commitment to a better future for all.
The Art of Refurbishing and Upcycling Furniture
This term we donated 16+ pieces of furniture, which were at the end of their AGC lifespan, for a first year BA Product and Furniture Design project focused on reimagining the role of furniture in interior public spaces.
Here at AGC, we are always trying to do out absolute best to help the beautiful world we live in. After doing some extensive research into our industry, we have discovered that the industry has a long journey ahead with just a 1/3rd of the surveyed supply chain being actively sustainable with defined sustainability targets or a manifesto in place. That means that 2/3rds either have limited focus or are passively addressing the behaviours of their own manufacturing and supply chains. What’s even more interesting is that even those with sustainability targets issued, are only on the start of their journey and therefore they have probably still not made the changes that we need to see.
A small way of doing out bit, we believe that unwanted furniture doesn't have to go to waste. That's why we've made it one of our missions to give old furniture a new lease on life. With UAL refurbishing and upcycling our old furniture, we're able to breathe new life into pieces that would otherwise end up in a landfill. Not only does this help to reduce waste and prevent environmental pollution, but it also allows us to create unique and one-of-a-kind pieces that are full of character and charm. Our team of skilled craftsmen and designers are able to transform old, worn-out furniture into beautiful and functional pieces that can be enjoyed for years to come. As well as another push to help the earth, AGC wanted to work toward their charity goals with the donation of the furniture to the university to foster a culture of sustainability, provide students with comfortable and functional pieces, and contribute to the university's mission of creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.
We're proud to be part of the growing movement towards a more sustainable and circular economy. By extending the life of furniture, we're able to reduce the demand for new furniture and the resources required to produce them.
Unconventional Solutions
We visited the Chelsea Campus to see the concepts of the student ideas and give a short presentation about AGC. We had a lot of fun listening to the students and getting some inspiration ourselves!
The project challenges traditional notions of furniture design and explores how it can be used to enhance our experience of public spaces. The students have been encouraged to think outside the box and create designs that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable.
From wacky and colourful arrangements to innovative storage solutions, the designs were very creative and exciting, and it was great to see such passion. The students have taken inspiration from nature, cultural heritage, and contemporary art to create furniture pieces that are unique and thought-provoking.
But this project is not just about creating beautiful furniture; it's about redefining the way we interact with public spaces. The designs aim to create a sense of community and inclusivity, allowing people from all walks of life to come together and connect.
The University of Arts London's BA Product and Furniture Design project is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation. By reimagining the role of furniture in public spaces, the students have created designs that are not only functional but also beautiful and sustainable. It's exciting to see how their ideas will shape the future of public spaces and inspire future generations of furniture designers.
Over the next few weeks, the students will be bringing their concepts to life and present them at the exhibition on the 25th May.
We cannot wait to see them! Stay tuned to see them come to life.
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