In an effort to highlight recycling efforts in Malaysia, no-to-scale* picks up on one of the most pressing issues of today; that of plastic waste. Malaysia’s recycling program, which is still in its infancy, is inefficient and requires active participation by the locals to make the program successful. Utilizing the model of the circular economy, no-to-scale* proposed a stool that can be entirely self-made from recycling domestic, plastic waste. Demonstrating to the public the possibility of harnessing waste in a more productive manner. What better way to communicate this than through the humble plastic stool ?
‘Bangku Tapau’ is inspired by the ubiquitous plastic stools commonly found in hawker and ‘mamak’ stalls. Durable, utilitarian and copied endlessly, it is a true testament of a great design. Inspired by this humble piece of furniture, no-to-scale studio proposes an upgrade to a local design classic.
‘Bangku’ which means ‘stool’ in the Malay language, and ‘Tapau’; a local slang word meaning ‘to take away’, is a common term used when one is buying take away food from stalls. Hence we thought it would be fitting that the stool be made out of recycled plastic waste, a material commonly found in abundance at recycling centers or collected from domestic usage. Highlighting the role and the open-ended possibilities that a circular design-based economy can have in a country such as Malaysia.
