Sabrina van Dongen: "Why are we throwing out all the nice furniture?"

The design industry has long adhered to a “replace rather than repair” mentality, leading to 10 million tons of discarded furniture annually in Europe, with 90% ending up in landfills. In this episode we dive into the possibilities of circular design with Sabrina van Dongen, Managing Director of Furnify, a company dedicated to redefining interior design through circularity. Founded by D/DOCK, Furnify transforms discarded materials into functional and aesthetic interiors, challenging the norms of linear consumption. In this episode of Circular Pioneers, Sabrina takes us behind the scenes of circular design, sharing insights into Furnify’s journey, the challenges of changing consumer behaviour, and the power of rethinking waste. Why This Episode Matters: Circularity in design is not only an environmental necessity but also a creative challenge. Sabrina's leadership at Furnify highlights the potential for second-life furniture to disrupt traditional design practices without compromising on quality or aesthetics. As the conversation around sustainability grows, this episode serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility—and opportunity—designers have to shape a greener future. Key Highlights: Reimagining Interiors with Circularity: Discover how Furnify integrates second-life materials to create interiors that are both sustainable and visually stunning. The Story of DB55: Learn how this Amsterdam venue became a living example of circular design, showcasing the beauty and potential of reuse. Overcoming Industry Challenges: Sabrina delves into the hurdles Furnify faces, from logistical barriers to shifting mind-sets, and how they tackle them head-on. Changing the Narrative Around Consumption: Understand how storytelling and emotional connection can redefine how we value and care for materials. The Role of Collaboration: Sabrina discusses the importance of partnerships and transparency in accelerating the adoption of circular design practices. Conclusion: Sabrina van Dongen’s work at Furnify is a testament to the transformative power of design in creating a circular economy. By challenging conventional practices and emphasizing collaboration, Furnify is proving that sustainability and style can coexist. For designers, architects, and anyone interested in the future of interiors, this episode offers invaluable insights into how we can rethink waste and make circularity the norm. Relevant Links: Sabrina van Dongen on LinkedIn: Sabrina's LinkedIn Furnify: Furnify Website D/DOCK: D/DOCK Website

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