r1 recycles wooden pallets into interlocking mobile benches

r1 recycles wooden pallets into interlocking mobile benches
all images courtesy of r1

as part of a residence program in the maboneng precinct of downtown johannesburg, local artist r1 aimed to enliven public space and envision innovative solutions that would positively contribute to the community. in collaboration with a local informal upholstery coach maker, he has developed ‘brothers in benches’: a series of 6 interchangeable, mobile seating units made out of reclaimed wooden pallets.

the seats have been designed to interlock with one another as part of one, singular structure. the team placed them around the city streets johannesburg at various locations, inviting public participation and engagement with the community of inhabitants.

wooden pallets are fit with greenery to enliven public space

the benches fold and interlock into varying positions

the benches have been transformed from discarded wooden pallets

various positions and postures for the bench series

the 6 interlocking pieces can both connect and disperse

moving the units and arranging them in varying compositions

process and construction

use in the public space

local children use the recycled bench

varying applications throughout the city and within local cafes and residences