For the Low & Bonar’s In4nite II project, Studio Joris de Groot has carefully examined the various techniques that are applied in the manufacturing of car interiors, and translated this into a collection of shoes. One of the current uses for Low & Bonar’s material Colback is its implementation in the automotive industry, where it is incorporated in the upholstery of car interiors.

Having researched the materials that comprise car upholstery, Joris shifted his focus towards the moulding of the material. In the research and development center of Low & Bonar, the quality of the material is tested in order to minimize irregularities within the interior. A linear pattern is applied in this moulding process, to monitor the ways in which the material behaves when it is formed. Inspired by this process, Joris appropriated the technology in a new way by converting it to form shoes. During this process, he explored the tufted Colback material by playing with the linear patterns; the details and inconsistencies that emerged constitute the aesthetic character of his collection. These reveal the techniques as well as the materials behind the design.

From the tufted and moulded material of the body and the carpeting, to the finishing procedures of car mats that round off the edges of the design, the diverse range of techniques that are applied in the manufacturing of car interiors come together in this collection of shoes.

Studio Joris de Groot is interested in collaborations for the further development or application of this material.