Ruffini Chair: 3D Printed Seating from Recycled Plastic
German architecture studio Mungenast / Morroni designed the Ruffini chair as a 3D printed seating solution made from recycled PETG plastic. The design debuted in 2024 at an exhibition in Munich’s historic Ruffinihaus.
Design and Structure
The Ruffini chair features smooth, ribbon-like curves created using double-curved surfaces. This geometry supports heavy loads while using minimal material, resulting in a wall thickness of only 8 millimetres.
The designers selected a three-legged base to improve stability on uneven ground. Users opt for an upright version for formal seating or reclined for a more relaxed posture.
Localised Production
Mungenast and Morroni developed the chair for on-demand, local production, aiming to lower transport-related emissions. For example, the University of New South Wales in Sydney recently produced a version on-site using its own 3D printing facilities. This approach allows designers and clients to source production close to the final destination.
Material and Finish Options
The chair uses recycled PETG plastic, a thermoplastic polyester that manufacturers can process multiple times. This choice gives post-consumer or post-industrial plastic waste a new use. Additionally, the surface texture and colour can be customised to fit specific design briefs, whether for indoor or outdoor applications.
Application Potential
By combining lightweight geometry with recycled plastic and localised manufacturing, the Ruffini chair offers a practical example of sustainable seating design. Its adaptable production method makes it relevant for projects seeking to integrate recycled plastic furniture while reducing environmental impact through local sourcing.
Source: Dezeen
Photos: Mungenast / Morroni