The Stuffing Series by designer Junmyung Song reimagines the use of sawdust, a byproduct of woodworking, as a central material for innovative furniture design. Drawing inspiration from taxidermy—the art of preserving and giving new form to once-living beings—this series explores themes of transformation, essence, and material identity.

From Byproduct to Feature Material
Traditionally, sawdust has been used as a hidden, structural filler in taxidermy. In Song’s work, this often-overlooked material is elevated to prominence, becoming the defining visual and structural element of the furniture. Combined with shimmering cast-metal surfaces, the Stuffing Series creates a striking juxtaposition between the organic and the industrial.

The process begins with shaping sawdust into intricate forms, which are then cast in aluminium approximately 4mm thick. The result is a unique blend of textured warmth from the sawdust and the cold rigidity of metal, offering a tactile and visual dialogue between natural and artificial elements.

Sustainability and Material Circularity
At its core, this series highlights the potential of repurposing waste materials like sawdust, challenging its traditional role as a secondary byproduct. Song’s approach aligns with principles of material circularity and sustainable design, giving a second life to what is often discarded. This transformation not only reduces waste but also underscores the versatility and aesthetic potential of sustainable materials in modern furniture design.

Bridging Boundaries in Design
The Stuffing Series blurs conventional boundaries: it questions the distinctions between interior and exterior, life and non-life, and auxiliary versus central materials. The stools symbolize transformation, showing how new meanings and identities can emerge through material reconfiguration. By combining organic textures with industrial techniques, Song bridges the gap between natural decomposition and man-made precision, creating pieces that provoke questions about the essence and identity of objects.

Relevance for Designers
For interior and product designers, the Stuffing Series serves as an inspiration to explore unconventional materials and processes. By showcasing the potential of sawdust and metal, Song opens new pathways for sustainable furniture that balances aesthetics, functionality, and ecological responsibility. The series also invites designers to think about the narratives embedded in materials—how transformation and adaptation can convey deeper stories.

Source: DesignBoom
Photos: Junmyung Song