In the last decade we have produced over 3.5 billion tonnes of plastic. It’s all around us, so what do we do with it? How can we re-engineer this ‘dirty’ material and challenge our idea of waste for a more sustainable future?
These will be the questions that are answered by Andrew Simpson, Founder and Director of Sydney-based design studio, Vert, along with Jonathan Mountfort, Creative Director at Autex Acoustics, at Infinity Commercial Furniture’s Waterloo Showroom for Saturday Indesign.
Saturday Indesign is a one-day exhibition held in Sydney, on 7 September, that connects the best mix of local and international products from leading brands within the architecture and design industry. ICF is partnering with leading acoustics and insulation brand, Autex Acoustics, to bring an informative and fun experience for all attendees.
With over 18 years’ experience, Simpson has designed a range of products from handcrafted items to mass-produced industrial goods. Known for his human-centered design approach, Simpson has pioneered the use of sustainable materials, including the iconic HuskeeCup and his work has been exhibited globally. Specialising in injection moulding of sustainable materials for clients like Unilever, Nestle, and Sydney Water.
Jonathan Mountfort has more than 20 years of experience in design and manufacturing. Leading a talented team of designers and engineers at Autex, he has overseen the development of proprietary recycling technologies, utilised material research to extend product life cycles, and helped facilitate the company’s journey to carbon neutrality.
“My approach is rooted in a deep respect for materials, which is fundamental to how we go about creating circular, sustainable designs,” said Mountfort when asked what drives innovation in employing pre-existing materials. “Sustainability is non-negotiable, which narrows the design criteria. It means we can’t simply glue materials together or combine mismatched polymers. It’s a very considered, future-focused approach.”
“There are a multitude of challenges to consider when repurposing materials in a commercial context, from early stages of design and supply chain to later stages of consumption. This discussion will explore how to overcome these, creating an outcome that is good for people and the planet.”
Join us for Modern Materiality and question your ideas of waste. Instead of thinking of waste as a negative byproduct, it can become a valuable resource.
For more information call the ICF team on 1300 033 757 or email [email protected].
Modern Materiality
Date: Saturday 7 September 2024
Time: 11:00am – 12:00pm
Location: 175 Botany Road, Waterloo, NSW
Register: https://www.saturdayindesign.com/register
About the Speakers
Andrew Simpson
Andrew Simpson is the founder and director of Vert, a Sydney-based industrial design house. Over 18 years, he has designed a range of products from handcrafted items to mass-produced industrial goods. Known for his human-centered design approach, Andrew has pioneered sustainable materials, including the iconic HuskeeCup. Since 2010, he has also directed Best Practice Plastics, specialising in injection moulding of sustainable materials for clients like Unilever, Nestle, and Sydney Water. Andrew’s work has been exhibited globally, and he is a respected mentor and speaker, continually influencing the design community with his innovative and meaningful approach to design.
Jonathan Mountfort
Jonathan Mountfort is the Creative Director of Autex Acoustics and has more than 20 years of experience across design and manufacturing. Completing studies in mechanical engineering and product design, Jonathan’s cultivated a deep understanding of materials, forms and spaces. With a palpable passion for sustainability, he leads a talented team of designers and engineers and has overseen the development of proprietary recycling technologies, utilised material research to extend product life cycles, and helped facilitate Autex’s journey to carbon neutrality. Jonathan’s commitment to perpetual betterment has led to countless innovative solutions, pushing the boundaries of acoustic design and inspiring change across the industry.
Aleesha Callahan – Moderator
Aleesha Callahan is a design journalist and editor with over a decade of experience. As the former editor of Habitus and Indesignlive, she is passionate about sharing unique stories and highlighting design’s power to drive change. With a background in interior design, Aleesha brings an insider perspective to her work, contributing to various publications and brands across the industry.
