Material Heroes

London Design Festival celebrates and promotes London as the design capital of the world. Commissioned and coordinated by COMPANY,PLACE, The Kings Cross Design District focuses on the future of design from material heroes to a circular economy. KX Seating, designed by CASA ESTUDIO, is part of the Super Nature initiative which uses public realm installations and activations to explore circular design.

CASA ESTUDIO designs are characterised by a bold use of colour and geometry. Made specifically to be placed in Kings Cross, the benches are deceptively simple and prototyped in two sizes. Using recycled paper composite sheet material machined into a slatted structure the design commends the area's industrial history. Smooth, curved edges and exaggerated joints are a nod to children's construction toys. Although made of paper, the material is weather resistant and durable enough for a busy public realm. Installed at the start of London Design Festival 2021, the furniture will be tested in situ for a year against the elements before the potential further expansion and development of other tables, chairs and modular furniture.