Driven by a strong commitment to sustainability, the Aluskin chair reflects the raw, austere aesthetic characteristic of Carsten in der Elst’s work.
As part of the Aluskin series, it advances an innovative approach to material efficiency through cutting plans that eliminate excess, highlighting the designer’s dedication to responsible design.
The chair’s aluminium panels are crafted from cast skins—industrial by-products typically generated in high-precision aluminium manufacturing processes. Rather than discarding these materials, Carsten in der Elst repurposes them, allowing the natural dimensions and unique properties of the panels to dictate the chair’s form and overall design. This approach not only minimizes waste but also celebrates the material’s inherent character.
Carsten in der Elst (b. 1992, Düsseldorf), now based in Cologne, is renowned for his pioneering approach to furniture design that centers on material reuse. His philosophy emphasizes allowing materials to guide the creative process, often involving close collaboration with local suppliers and working directly on-site to better understand and repurpose industrial waste.
His commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship is evident in projects like “Soft Works,” where he transformed materials such as cork, silicone, and leftover mattresses into functional art pieces. Throughout his career, Carsten in der Elst continues to challenge traditional design norms, highlighting sustainability, material integrity, and the unexpected beauty found in discarded resources.
