My project
22 million pieces of furniture end up in landfill in the UK every year. I'm on a mission to offer an alternative to standard furniture and create a more sustainable option. I'm looking for some help to fund my final graduation project! My goal is to make a series of inflatable furniture (6-8 pieces) to highlight how inner tubes can be utilised to design new high-value products with a strong focus on sustainability.
I’ve been researching ways to remove all the internal structures (foam, padding, glue) of traditional upholstered furniture in order to minimise waste streams. This has culminated in using repurposed automobile inner tubes and reinflating them to create interesting, playful furniture. By using inner tubes, I can take another waste stream and turn it into something beautiful. The inflation process also creates a lightweight, transportable and innovative series of furniture to create a new paradigm.
Who am I?
My name is Sofia, and I study Product and Furniture design at Kingston University. My interests lie within simple processes and exploring new ideas through alternative materials. I like to use familiar objects to make my ideas approachable to all audiences.
Why donate to the inflate series?
The INFLATE SERIES tackles the issue of longevity, sustainability, space and mobility. With only three materials - a steel frame, fabric, and inner tubes my products offer an honest design and repairable solutions that combat the problem of furniture waste and landfill accumulation. By using simple materials my products are transparent in their design giving consumers the confidence to repair them themselves if needs be, which helps extend their lifespan and decrease their environmental impact.
I am a semi-finalist in the 2023 Mayor of London entrepreneur competition. If I make it to the final, I'll be pitching for a start-up grant with this project. By donating to the INFLATE SERIES, you'll be helping me create a strong case for success and graduating with a project that I am incredibly passionate about.
Where will the money go?
Inner tubes
Min: x4 £200
Goal: x7 £300 (Cheaper the more I buy)
Cost of fabric for upholstery
Min: £300
Goal: £700
Any extra funds will be spent on:
Steel frames and making a zine/short film following the journey of the inner tubes.
How can you help
Any donation will make all the difference. With your help, I will be able to complete my graduation project! Thank you to everyone in advance!
Follow this project
You can find updates on my progress on my Instagram @sos_smat.If you have any advice or questions, feel free to reach out to me at sofiamatheou@gmail.com.
