charming animal ears decorate seoul’s city trash cans designed by SWNA
SWNA developed 30 trash cans to be piloted in 15 high-traffic urban locations.
SWNA’s Innovative Trash Can Designs revitalize Seoul’s Streets
SWNA has introduced a new design for public trash cans currently undergoing a trial installation in select downtown areas of Seoul. This initiative is part of Seoul City’s ‘Design Seoul 2.0’ project, aimed at enhancing urban aesthetics and functionality. Under this large-scale design project, SWNA developed 30 trash cans to be piloted in 15 high-traffic urban locations such as Sejong-daero, Sogong-ro, and Seosomun-ro. The design focuses on both convenience and visual appeal. Type A features a sleek, curved shape, while Type B incorporates a friendly, smiling face on the lid and slot, adding a playful element. Both types of trash cans feature wide slots and open tops in all directions, ensuring easy disposal and collection of trash. The round design departs from traditional square bins, offering a softer aesthetic. General waste bins are colored dark brown, while recycling bins are dark green, serving as distinctive spots in the cityscape.
various waste bin models Enhance Seoul’s Urban Landscape
Additionally, SWNA introduced specialized designs with animal ears on select models, enhancing the bins’ charm and contributing to the city’s vibrancy. Founder Sukwoo Lee emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, involving stakeholders such as the Seoul Metropolitan Government, citizens, and sanitation workers to gather diverse feedback. Lee highlighted the challenges of public design, acknowledging the potential for political influences and striving for a balanced approach that incorporates stakeholder needs. Currently in the pilot phase, studio SWNA plans to refine the design based on ongoing feedback, aiming for broader implementation throughout Seoul in the future.
project info:
name: Seoul city trash can design
designer: SWNA | @sukwoo.lee_swna
participating designers: Sukwoo Lee, Gyuchang Kim, Joowon Kim, Daye Yang, and Gyunhwan Kwon
produced by: Seoul Metropolitan Government, SEDG
client: Seoul City (Mayor Oh Se-hoon)
location: Seoul, South Korea
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