‘knock on wood’ furniture series recombines organic lignin with cellulose found on trees

Basse Stittgen’s ‘Knock on Wood’ evokes the essence of trees

‘Knock on Wood’ by Basse Stittgen delves into the sustainable potential of lignin and cellulose, Earth’s most abundant organic polymers. While one is widely used in industries like paper and textiles, the other remains largely untapped. In fact, to date, lignin is mostly burned in thermal waste plants for the production of energy, with all the consequential negative emissions. This project reconnects cellulose and lignin, emphasizing their original bond in trees.

The project highlights the disconnection between industrial production and natural origins. By creating objects and furniture that evoke the essence of trees—the rough bark texture, the rings marking seasons—Stittgen aims to foster mindfulness and a tangible connection to nature.

fostering mindfulness and a tangible connection to nature

‘Knock on Wood’ explores the potential of lignin reconnected with cellulose through recombination and rematerialization processes. This union creates a plant-based polymer clay, offering an eco-friendly alternative to fossil-fuel-based materials. The cellulose fibers provide strength, while lignin acts as a binder, mimicking their natural roles in trees.

This design-research initiative by Studio Basse Stittgen underscores the environmental benefits and possibilities of sustainable material innovation, positioning lignin as a valuable resource in eco-conscious design.

project info:

name: Knock on Wood
designer: Basse Stittgen | @bassestittgen

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.