reimagining the value of discarded mdf

 

With the M. Rock Project, designer ChanWoo Park introduces a fresh perspective on the value of Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) — a material that proves to be easy to use yet is often readily discarded. By embracing the broken and rough edges of discarded MDF as a solid layer akin to rock, the project elevates the perceived value of this versatile material and molds it into a series of dining, side, and coffee tables.

 

For the manufacturing, the designer solidified the edges of MDF which can be easily broken and painted the entire surface with a dark matte ink to emulate the texture and strength of a rock. However, taking the tactile aspect of the tables into consideration, the surfaces are soft to touch. To ensure this finish and safety during use, the sharp edges were carefully sanded down to prevent any potential damage to the user’s hands.

chanwoo park embraces rough edges of discarded MDF for table series
all images courtesy of ChanWoo Park

 

 

chanwoo park embraces rough textures and imperfections

 

The concept of the M. Rock Project springs from the designer’s personal experiences. Confronted with daily challenges and financial constraints, ChanWoo Park worked at a construction site, working long hours both before sunrise and after sunset. However, amid these demanding circumstances, the designer sought developed a newfound sympathy for discarded MDF, and sought to reimagine its use. Observing the wasteful disposal of perfectly usable MDF items inspired the concept of recycling and redesigning the waste — bestowing a fresh sense of value upon the material.

chanwoo park embraces rough edges of discarded MDF for table series
ChanWoo Park presents M. Rock Project

chanwoo park embraces rough edges of discarded MDF for table series
a series of dining, side, and coffee tables

chanwoo park embraces rough edges of discarded MDF for table series
reimagining the value of MDF — a material that is easy to use yet often readily discarded

chanwoo park embraces rough edges of discarded MDF for table series
the project embraces the broken edges of discarded MDF as a solid layer akin to rock

chanwoo park embraces rough edges of discarded MDF for table series
sharp edges were carefully sanded down to prevent any potential damage to the user’s hands

the view of mdfs value 12
the designer solidified the edges of MDF which can be easily broken

the view of mdfs value 6
incense holder

the view of mdfs value 7
the entire MDF is painted with a dark matte ink to emulate the surface and strength of a rock

 

 

project info:

 

name: M. Rock Project
designer: ChanWoo Park

 

 

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.

 

edited by: ravail khan | designboom