The article discusses a collaboration between London-based design studio Pearson Lloyd and 3D-manufacturing studio Batch.Works to create a collection of 3D-printed desk accessories made from recycled bioplastic waste. The collection, called bFRIENDS, features pen pots, trays, and a mobile phone stand and is made from recycled polylactic acid (PLA) sourced from discarded food packaging. This is the first time that Pearson Lloyd has designed a 3D-printed product, marking a shift in their use of 3D printing as a tool for development. The designs feature organic, undulating shapes and were created with the aim of reducing hand-finishing and printing time. The production of the collection represents a step towards circular production, with the desk accessories being made from materials diverted from landfills. The use of PLA as a bioplastic material also adds to its eco-friendly nature.

Design Collaboration

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Pearson Lloyd and Batch.Works team up for bFRIENDS collection

In a collaboration between London-based design studio Pearson Lloyd and 3D-manufacturing studio Batch.Works, a new collection called bFRIENDS has been created for office brand Bene. The collection consists of desk accessories such as pen pots, trays, and a mobile-phone stand, all made from recycled polylactic acid (PLA). This collaboration marks Pearson Lloyd’s first venture into designing 3D-printed products, although the studio has used 3D printing as a development tool for previous projects. The bFRIENDS collection showcases Pearson Lloyd’s innovative use of 3D printing technology and features organic, undulating shapes inspired by corals.

Recycled Bioplastic Waste

Desk accessories made from 100% recycled PLA

PLA sourced from food packaging waste

PLA is derived from cornstarch instead of petroleum

The bFRIENDS collection is made entirely from recycled PLA. PLA, or polylactic acid, is a bioplastic material that is derived from cornstarch instead of traditional petroleum-based plastics. This makes PLA a more sustainable alternative as it reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The PLA used in the bFRIENDS collection is sourced from food packaging waste that is collected in the Benelux region. This waste is then transformed into filament by material partners Reflow, based in Amsterdam. By using recycled PLA, the collection not only reduces waste but also promotes a circular economy by giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.

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Product Range

Collection includes pen pots, trays, and a mobile-phone stand

Five different designs in multiple colorways

Organic, undulating shapes inspired by corals

The bFRIENDS collection consists of various desk accessories, including pen pots, trays, and a mobile-phone stand. The collection offers five different designs, each available in multiple colorways. The designs feature organic and undulating shapes that are inspired by coral formations. These intricate and aesthetically pleasing designs not only serve their functional purpose but also add an element of visual interest to any workspace. The combination of innovative 3D printing technology and nature-inspired design elements sets the bFRIENDS collection apart from traditional desk accessories.

Sustainability and Circular Production

Production process close to net-zero emissions

Factory powered by wind electricity

Raw material sourced locally

Staff commute by bicycle

One of the key focuses of the bFRIENDS collection is sustainability and circular production. The production process of these desk accessories is designed to have minimal environmental impact. The factory where the products are made is powered by electricity derived from wind power, ensuring that the production process is as eco-friendly as possible. Additionally, the raw materials used in the production of the collection, such as recycled PLA, are sourced locally. This reduces the need for transportation and helps minimize carbon emissions. Furthermore, the staff involved in the production process commute to work by bicycle, further reducing the collection’s overall carbon footprint.

Reducing Hand-Finishing and Printing Time

Designing products as a single line without interruptions

Eliminating the need for print head relocation

Streamlining the 3D printing process

Pearson Lloyd aimed to reduce the hand-finishing aspect and streamline the 3D printing process in the development of the bFRIENDS collection. To achieve this, the studio designed each product as a single continuous line that includes all the necessary functional elements. By eliminating interruptions in the printing process, the need for print head relocation is also eliminated. This approach not only reduces the time required for 3D printing but also ensures a smoother and more efficient production process. The result is a collection of desk accessories that are not only visually appealing but also produced with advanced manufacturing techniques.

Net-Zero Production Process

PLA sourced from consistent food packaging waste

Material partners Reflow turn waste into filament

Factory powered by wind electricity

Employees commute by bicycle

The production process of the bFRIENDS collection is designed to have a minimal environmental impact. The PLA used in the collection is sourced from consistent food packaging waste that is collected in the Benelux region. This waste is then transformed into filament by material partners Reflow, based in Amsterdam. By using waste as a raw material, the collection helps divert materials from landfills and contributes to a circular economy. Additionally, the factory where the products are made is powered by wind electricity, ensuring that the production process is powered by renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the employees involved in the production process commute to work by bicycle, further reducing the collection’s overall carbon footprint.

Eco-Friendly Material

PLA is a bioplastic made from cornstarch

More sustainable alternative to traditional plastics

The bFRIENDS collection showcases the use of PLA, a bioplastic material made from cornstarch. Unlike traditional plastics that rely on fossil fuels, PLA offers a more sustainable alternative. PLA is derived from renewable resources and has a lower carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based plastics. By using PLA in the production of the collection, Pearson Lloyd demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials in design. The use of PLA not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also helps to minimize waste by utilizing recycled materials.

Unique and Engaging Design

Innovative use of 3D printing technology

Products feature intricate and aesthetically pleasing designs

Designs inspired by natural forms and shapes

The bFRIENDS collection stands out not only for its sustainable production methods but also for its unique and engaging design. Pearson Lloyd utilizes innovative 3D printing technology to create intricate and visually appealing desk accessories. The designs are inspired by natural forms and shapes, particularly the organic and undulating patterns found in coral formations. These nature-inspired designs add a touch of elegance and texture to the desk accessories, making them engaging and visually striking. The combination of sustainability and design innovation sets the bFRIENDS collection apart in the market.

Positive Environmental Impact

Diverting materials from landfills

Reducing waste and promoting a circular economy

Making sustainable products accessible and desirable

The bFRIENDS collection is not only visually pleasing and functional but also has a positive environmental impact. By utilizing recycled PLA and diverting materials from landfills, the collection contributes to reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. It demonstrates that sustainable products can be accessible and desirable without compromising on aesthetics or quality. The collection serves as a model for environmentally conscious design and manufacturing practices, showing that it is possible to create products that are both sustainable and appealing to consumers. By choosing products like the bFRIENDS collection, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying high-quality and well-designed desk accessories.

Advancements in 3D Printing

Pearson Lloyd’s first 3D-printed product

Evolution of 3D printing technology over the years

Affordability and accessibility of desktop printers

The collaboration between Pearson Lloyd and Batch.Works for the bFRIENDS collection marks an important milestone for both studios. It is Pearson Lloyd’s first venture into designing a 3D-printed product, showcasing the evolution of 3D printing technology over the years. What was once an exotic and expensive tool has now become more affordable and accessible, allowing designers to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of design. The bFRIENDS collection highlights the potential of 3D printing technology in creating intricate and visually appealing products. As 3D printing continues to advance, it is expected to play a significant role in the future of design and manufacturing.

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