1. The Empathy Sofa: This interactive furniture piece was designed by social designer Seyhan Özdemir for the Istanbul Design Biennial in 2016. The main aim of the design is to encourage empathy between people. The sofa is designed for two people to sit back-to-back, so they can't see each other's faces. Users are then encouraged to hold hands and engage in conversation, ultimately creating a space for dialogue, empathy, and understanding.
2. The Refugee Armchair: This Estonian-designed armchair was created as part of a wider initiative to provide furniture for people living in refugee camps. The designer, Toivo Raidmets, aimed to create a comfortable and durable chair that could be easily assembled and transported. The chair's design also reflects the cultural diversity of the refugees, with patterns and designs from various countries incorporated into the overall design.
3. The Chaise Inside-Out: This chaise longue was designed by Brazilian architect Lina Bo Bardi in 1949 as a symbol of the social and political transformation of Brazil. The design of the chair is influenced by the country's indigenous culture, with its use of natural materials and simple, functional design. The chair has since become a symbol for social justice and cultural diversity in Brazil.
4. The Free Range Furniture Project: This community initiative in Philadelphia aims to address issues of inequality and accessibility in the city. The project provides furniture-making workshops and materials to low-income families, allowing them to create their own furniture. The aim is to empower families with the skills and means to create their own home furnishings, fostering a sense of community and self-sufficiency.
5. The 100 Chairs in 100 Days Project: This project was initiated by designer Martino Gamper as a way to address issues related to waste and consumption in the furniture industry. Gamper collected discarded chairs from around London and refurbished them, creating 100 unique and functional pieces. The project highlights the importance of sustainable design and encourages a more mindful approach to consumption.
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