discarded kitesurfing parachutes shape vibrant chairs by yotam cohen and assaf shinfeld

AURA breathes new life into kitesurfing waste

Transforming kitesurfing parachutes into functional art, AURA by Yotam Cohen and Assaf Shinfeld explores the infinite possibilities of recycling unconventional materials to create aesthetic, valuable end objects. Specifically, the design duo focuses on waste that remains largely unexplored in the realm of design, taking on discarded kite parachutes originally used for water sports. The branded fabric became the primary raw material, gathered from various sources including Facebook groups and surf clubs and crafted into vibrant chairs, introducing an element of ambiguity in creating seating objects from such lightweight material. Detail design elements emerged from a fusion of existing parachute elements and new creations. Cords from the kites were repurposed to stretch the fabric and lend it its specific shape, air tubes were transformed into back supports or pillows, and various weave types were combined with new elements introduced by the designers.

all images courtesy of Yotam Cohen and Assaf Shinfeld

preserving the material’s essence and parachute technology

In the ideation stages, Yotam Cohen and Assaf Shinfeld sought to identify a distinctive type of waste that would unmistakably convey its origin at first glance. Thanks to their connection with the sea and a background in water sports, the duo found inspiration in kitesurfing parachutes and their colorful, eye-catching potential. Research followed, delving into the reasons behind the discarding of these parachutes, quantities, and viability of further use. Whether due to advancements in technology, the level of surfers progressing, or outdated equipment, the parachutes often remained in surprisingly good condition.

Central to the project was an interest in preserving the nature of the fabric and the parachutes’ manufacturing technology. Cohen and Shinfeld incorporated all components including the fabric and ‘tubes’ into the chairs, ensuring their original purpose remained clear and functional. The frame design adhered to a minimalist ethos, featuring mundane square frames made of thin iron with a subtle, shifting arch that echoes the sail shape of the kite. Each chair bore a distinct label, detailing the section cut from the parachute, the amount of fabric and cord utilized, and a brief narrative recounting its former life as a kitesurfing parachute. Additionally, the label features handwritten specifics such as the model and the donor’s name or location to clearly commemorate and imprint its former life.

Aura: One of a Kite

minimal, squared frame, that aims to keep the kite in the spotlight

a subtle arch that appears in a different place every time nods to the sail shape of the kite

transforming kite parachutes into functional art

the duo preserved the nature of the fabric and the parachutes’ manufacturing technology

cords were sewn into the iron

the cords were taken from the same kite as the sit, giving the chair its stretch and shape

the air tubes are now stuffed and used as a back support and or a pillow

a unique label on each chair marks the section of the original parachute and the amount of materials used

Yotam Cohen and Assaf Shinfeld explore the infinite possibilities of upcycling unconventional materials

project info:

name: AURA | One of a Kite
designer: Yotam Cohen and Assaf Shinfeld

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: ravail khan | designboom