re:think convention: Nowy Styl promotes and rewards circular design
re:think convention:
Nowy Styl promotes and rewards circular design
At the end of April, Nowy Styl’s showroom in Steyerberg (Germany) became an international hub for dialogue on the future of sustainable design. As part of the re:think convention, representatives of design, architecture, science, and business came together to discuss directions for product development and present concrete solutions aligned with the circular economy. The event created a platform for exchanging knowledge, inspiration, and experience—bridging theory and practice and demonstrating that sustainability can be effectively implemented at an industrial scale.
Circular design in practice
A key highlight of the program was the awards ceremony of the re:think design competition. Initiated by Nowy Styl with scientific support from the Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy (CCPE), the competition focused on innovative soft seating concepts based on a single material, enabling full recyclability.
From numerous submissions, an international jury selected three winning projects:
I place
First place was awarded to “LYNKA” by Sascha Sartory (SARTORY DESIGN, Cologne). The concept, based on a modular system of molded felt components, stands out for its high flexibility in arrangement and consistent application of a mono-material approach. The jury appreciated the combination of technological feasibility with a distinctive design language.
II place
Second place went to “MONO” by Daniel Streilein and Henry Boy (Boldextrusion Ventures, Hamburg). The project uses large-scale 3D printing both as a production method and an aesthetic feature, where visible print lines become an integral part of the design. The coherent integration of form and function highlights the potential of the mono-material approach.
III place
Third place was awarded to the “Re:PET System” by Nick Geipel and Moritz Walter (Berlin). This modular system of stools and tables combines minimalist form with high functionality, offering flexible use scenarios while reducing material complexity.
All three concepts will be presented as prototypes during ORGATEC 2026, one of the world’s leading industry events, taking place from October 27–30, 2026, in Cologne.
Interdisciplinary dialogue and knowledge exchange
The re:think convention was not only a competition, but above all a platform for knowledge and experience exchange. The program included keynotes, presentations, and a panel discussion focused on the challenges and future of the circular economy in the furniture industry.
The panel was moderated by Janine Utsch and featured, among others, Sascha Peters, Antonio Scaffidi, Sabrina Schreiner, and Hendrik Busse.
Experts emphasized that circular design requires a holistic approach—from material selection and design processes to product use and reuse. Collaboration between design, science, and industry plays a key role.
Experts emphasized that circular design requires a holistic approach—from material selection and design processes to product use and reuse. Collaboration between design, science, and industry plays a key role.
use2 – giving products a second life
An integral part of the event was the presentation of Nowy Styl’s use2 project—a concept focused on giving furniture a second life. Within this initiative, used furniture—regardless of the manufacturer - is refurbished and upgraded to be reintroduced to the market while maintaining high quality, functionality, and durability.
The future belongs to circular design
The re:think convention 2026 demonstrated that the circular economy is no longer a concept of the future, but a real direction for the industry’s development. The event confirmed that through innovation, collaboration, and an interdisciplinary approach, it is possible to create products that combine aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
By organizing the re:think convention, Nowy Styl sends a clear message to the market: the future of design lies in circular solutions, driven by knowledge, technology, and collaboration.
By organizing the re:think convention, Nowy Styl sends a clear message to the market: the future of design lies in circular solutions, driven by knowledge, technology, and collaboration.