UNICO: shifting from industrial to artisanal perception

After being inspired by the excess materials produced during the chair moulding process by Pedrali, Frederik De Wachter and Alberto Artesani, cofounders of DWA Studio, had the concept of utilizing this colourful and formless mixture with the intention of highlighting the transformation from liquid to solid. This resulted in UNICO, which implemented the raw form of these scraps rather than reprocessing them. This particular process enabled them to take on the look of organic materials such as stone and wood and merge it with reuse and craftsmanship to produce distinct pieces.

Due to our longtime interest in promoting partnerships between businesses and fashion designers, especially for recycling and upcycling endeavours, we were able to ask some direct questions to those who are part of the project.

At the 61st edition of the Salone del Mobile.Milano 2023, our collaboration with DWA Design Studio began. Alberto Artesani and Frederik De Wachter devised the #PedraliBacktoNature exhibition stand, highlighting the company’s outdoor collections and a variety of indoor products. Their design blended indoor and exterior design, creating one smooth transition. To gain insight into the brand, these two architects explored our facilities in Mornico al Serio, Bergamo, including the showroom, offices, and manufacturing factory.

Here, among the chair moulding process, sprang the idea behind the UNICO project. They realized untapped potential in the liquid wastage generated from the chair moulding process and thought to transform this waste material from liquid to solid, transforming it into tangible objects. Applying techniques of turning and polishing, gave the objects the semblance of stone, wood, and other natural elements, resulting in original pieces with inherent value. Therefore, this approach utilizes reuse and craftsmanship to create one-of-a-kind items.

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