The Upcycle Project is a social initiative that aims to facilitate meaningful exchanges of stories and objects between various stakeholders in the MacPher- son community. Pre-loved and unwanted furniture was collected to be upcycled for new owners and uses within the neighbourhood.
I participated as a designer in this initiative. I was paired with Mr Chew, a resident in his 70s. Through our interview, we found that he was enthusiastic about gardening.
After some discussion, we decide a plant rack would be useful as it would help neaten up the area outside his flat.
After some discussion, we decide a plant rack would be useful as it would help neaten up the area outside his flat.
The next steps were challenging as the piece of furniture to be upcycled had to be waterproof and strong enough for the many heavy clay plant pots. The final solution was to “chop up” an old metal dresser to form 3 plant racks and sneakily add metal bars to provide enough structure. The dresser’s ornate structure was ideal as a trellis for Mr Chew’s vining plants and fitted in with the intended environment aesthetically.
the plant rack was powder coated in a bright and cheery yellow green
Mr Chew seems quite pleased with the end result, although in the beginning, he insisted that he did not need our help as he did not wish to create “trouble” for us. It is satisfying to see a previously unwanted item become a useful and cheerful feature in Mr Chew’s home.
