RUI PENG CRITICAL DESIGN

Auckland-based startup company, Critical Design, has recently embarked on a project to transform how interiors would look with innovative products made from compressed recycled plastic. We had the opportunity to speak with Rui Peng, the CEO of Critical Design, to learn more about this groundbreaking initiative.

Laminated surfaces have long been a common fixture in hotels worldwide. However, the issue arises when these surfaces are damaged or broken, often resulting in a complicated and costly repair. Recognising this challenge, Critical Design, an Auckland-based startup company, has embarked on an innovative project to transform old desk frames with their revolutionary Cleanstone panels, built from compressed recycled plastic.

Under the leadership of Peng, Critical Design aims to provide a sustainable alternative to traditional laminated surfaces. The Cleanstone panels offer unparalleled durability and longevity thanks to their moisture-free composition. Unlike laminated surfaces, which can be challenging to repair, the Cleanstone panels can be easily sanded and polished when marked or damaged, ensuring a cost-effective and efficient solution.

What sets Cleanstone panels apart is their versatility in design and customisation. Critical Design offers a wide range of colour options, allowing each panel to be tailored to the client's preference. Furthermore, the panels are crafted from various recycled plastics, such as bubble wrap, plastic bags, piping, and netting, offering diverse design possibilities that help combat the carbon emissions associated with plastic waste.

Environmental sustainability is at the heart of Critical Design's mission. The company aims to make a lasting positive change by utilising sustainable technology with minimal environmental impact. The Cleanstone panels are just one aspect of their commitment. Critical design ships these panels worldwide, extending their influence beyond the local market. Moreover, the company has established a system to buy back panels in end-of-life condition, ensuring they can be repurposed into new products rather than ending up in landfills.

In addition to its environmental focus, Critical Design provides a 20-year lifetime warranty for the Cleanstone panels, underscoring its confidence in its durability. This commitment to quality and longevity reassures hotels and accommodation providers to invest in a sustainable and reliable solution for their desks. ay Amore in the mornings with the bright and colourful Dolce and Gabbana percolator, allowing guests to brew the most luxurious cup of coffee. With reminders of the Mediterranean, the percolator was made with Bialetti Moka, the creators of Italy’s finest stovetop coffee supplies. The percolator will consistently deliver the taste of Italy, creating the perfect flavour. The Tapestry four-door buffet table from Republic Home is a practical and modern statement piece of furniture. Be it in a room, hallway, or lobby, the Tapestry four-door buffet table is made from sustainably sourced mango wood, and comes in greywash and natural sanded seal. The chevron pattern offers subtle detail, whilst not being too overpowering. This creates an added layer of detail, as well as the perfect space for storage.

Peng explained that Critical Design's vision extends beyond desk refurbishment. Their ultimate ambition is to eliminate the dumping of plastics in landfills, making way for a future where sustainability is the norm. By leading the way with their Cleanstone panels and their dedication to ongoing improvements, Critical Design is shaping the future of sustainable design, benefitting both people and the planet.

The Cleanstone panels by Critical Design represent a significant step forward in hotels desk sustainability. With their durability, customisable design options, and unwavering commitment to the environment, these panels offer a compelling solution for hotels seeking eco-friendly alternatives.

By choosing Cleanstone panels, hotels can contribute to a greener future while providing students with a sustainable and inspiring learning environment.

They say that variety will add spice to life, and colour is the most effective way to do so. Patterns are by far the most eye-catching and vibrant way to add some pizazz to a space that may need to be addressed. For every colour combination, there is a pattern to match. Moving past stripes and leopard print, patterns have adapted to modern style and serve as a time machine with a few retro looks.

The Bovist by Vitra is a decorative floor pillow, stool, and ottoman all in one. Designed by Hella Jongerius, the Bovist’s shape creates an extremely comfortable space for guests to enjoy and adds a pop of colour to the mix. The motif and colour scheme was inspired by the Vlinder sofa, combining a multi-layer design and filled with synthetic beads.

The tide has turned towards larger patterns, especially with multi colours and layers. The Labyrinth Cushion from Shut the Front Door will make any monotone space into a vibrant area, with a bold pattern and bright yet subtle colours. Be it in the lobby, on a couch or in the guest’s rooms on a bed; the Labyrinth Cushion will add a touch of elegance.

For a throwback style, with a modern twist, Citta offers a Forget Me Not Cotton Bath Towel range in a classic cream and brown or ivy and oat combination. The colour tones blend well into other popular shades in the bathroom, whilst the pattern offers something visually appealing and effective.

Small flower patterns would also pair well with other room interiors within a guest bedroom or bathroom, whilst being a statement piece in itself.

Keeping with a detailed theme of small flowers, the Arabesque Velvet throw is a continuous blue and red print that is reminiscent of mosaic tile work. The throw would work in any room, creating an inviting sense of calm, as well as a gentle pattern with rich colour. The perfect dash of colour, the Arabesque Velvet Throw would transport a room to an exotic world.

A simple pattern of two colours can create an effective look, especially on a headboard. The Koru bedhead from Wink is a prime example of how a simple shape can be given a bold colour and pattern, that would perfectly bring a room together. Opting for a colourful pattern can make this a memorable focal point of the room.

For a modern look, explore the various styles of floor tiles that can instantly elevate a room's vibe. The Goroka Grafito from the Tile Shedis a Moroccan look tile in a random mix, which can be paired with any colour element to complement. Being a classic black-andwhite mix, there is a choice whether or not to give a black background or white background, ultimately adding a particular luxury ambience either way. The Goroka Grafito design would work well in a lobby, a room, a bar or a bathroom.