At Dutch Design Week 2025, the Dutch furniture manufacturer Circuform introduces Vert, a sofa with a fully circular frame made from recycled expanded polystyrene (rEPS). The design shows how reused materials can replace virgin resources without sacrificing quality or comfort.

Circular Materials and Local Production

The frame of Vert contains about 80% recycled rEPS beads. This lightweight material comes from post-industrial waste, such as packaging and discarded furniture parts. The seat and back cushions use recycled foam, made from a mix of recovered latex and polyurethane. In addition, the upholstery is produced from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester.

All components are made in the Netherlands, which helps reduce transport emissions and supports regional production.

Designed for Disassembly

Circuform designed the sofa according to Design for Disassembly principles. It contains no glue or staples. As a result, every part can be separated for repair, reuse, or recycling. This approach extends the product’s lifespan and allows materials to return to the production cycle at the end of use.

Reducing Material and Carbon Impact

By using recycled feedstock, Circuform reduces the need for new raw materials. The rEPS frame also lowers the overall weight of the furniture, which helps cut CO₂ emissions during manufacturing and transport. These choices illustrate how industrial waste can serve as a valuable source for new design.

Deposit System for Circular Return

Each Circuform product includes a deposit-return system. When customers return a sofa, they receive a refund. The company then reuses or recycles the materials into new products. This system encourages users to take part in a continuous, circular material loop.

Visit at Dutch Design Week

Visitors can see Vert and its rEPS frame at Dutch Design Week 2025, held from 18 to 26 October at the ID Hub, Klokgebouw, Eindhoven. The project highlights the growing potential of circular design in the furniture industry.

Source & photo: Circuform