As designers strive to mix beauty with sustainability, the quest for innovative materials has become imperative. Gerard Furbershaw, renowned for his innovative designs and commitment to environmental responsibility, has embarked on a journey to create art furniture using bamboo plywood, a material that not only captivates the eye but also lessens the ecological footprint.
For years, Furbershaw relied on traditional maple plywood for his creations, drawn to its visual appeal and versatility. However, his latest project prompted him to explore bamboo plywood, recognizing its environmental advantages. Unlike hardwood trees, which can take decades to mature, bamboo undergoes rapid growth, reaching maturity in as little as five years. This accelerated growth significantly reduces the impact of deforestation associated with traditional hardwoods, making bamboo a more sustainable choice.
Moreover, bamboo forests are renowned for their ability to sequester carbon, with studies showing they can absorb up to 70 percent more carbon than hardwood forests. By opting for bamboo plywood, Furbershaw not only reduces his reliance on finite hardwood resources but also actively contributes to carbon capture and environmental conservation.
In one of his latest designs, the Hover Too Bench, Furbershaw showcases the inherent beauty and versatility of bamboo plywood. Crafted from Plyboo plywood, each 8-foot length of 0.3-inch bands is meticulously laminated to form 4-foot by 8-foot sheets, resulting in a stunning canvas for his artistic vision. The bench, a counterpart to his original Hover Bench crafted from maple plywood, maintains a striking visual contrast while embodying a harmonious blend of form and function.
The design of the Hover Too Bench highlights Furbershaw’s attention to detail and structural integrity. By strategically splitting the sidewalls from the top with slender cuts and reinforcing them with diagonal braces, he achieves a delicate balance between visual appeal and stability. The result is a piece that not only invites admiration but also stands the test of time.
Beyond its environmental merits, bamboo plywood offers practical benefits as well. Plyboo, the brand designer chose for his project, utilizes a natural soy-based adhesive in its manufacturing process, eschewing the use of urea-formaldehyde—a known carcinogen. This commitment to eco-friendly practices ensures that each piece not only enhances living spaces but also promotes health and well-being.
As Furbershaw continues to explore the possibilities of bamboo plywood in his art furniture creations, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries of design while staying true to his values of sustainability and craftsmanship. Through his work, he inspires others in the design community to embrace innovative materials and techniques that not only elevate aesthetics but also safeguard the planet for future generations.