Hugo Ribeiro designs a table wrapped in crocheted plastic bags

Portuguese designer Hugo Ribeiro has recently introduced CROKÉ, a corner table inspired by traditional Portuguese stools and the art of crochet. Sustainability is deeply embedded in Ribeiro’s designs, with all his projects conveying the same message: “that every material can have a new cycle of usage”.

Image © Hugo Ribeiro

CROKÉ’s structure is made of pine wood, and introduces the art of crochet through a cover made of plastic bags, an element that usually gets wasted in the day-to-day routine. “I’ve always by attracted to reuse material, gathering natural resources and value them by their natural characteristics. I believe that creating new “mixed” designs is the best way to lead people for a better and sustainable mentality,” says Ribeiro.

Image © Hugo Ribeiro

For me, every project starts with a “Once upon a time…” and through forms, materials, ideas, … the story naturally unfolds. At the end, the results it’s new project with a natural plot. For example the “Croke” is based on the shape of a typical Portuguese stool. The wrappings are old plastic bags that had many trips and certainly a life “full” of stories and groceries.

– Hugo Ribeiro

Image © Hugo Ribeiro

The use of recyclable content intertwined with traditional Portuguese references create a colourful textural experience. The crochet lining also conceals a hidden shelf, ideal for storing books, clock or any small objects.

Image © Hugo Ribeiro

All my other projects try to transmit the same sustainable message: “ Agaphanto” a lamp made from cork and a plant called agapanthus; “Claw”, a pen holder made of wax, “Notebook” made of paper pulp, among others.

– Hugo Ribeiro

Image © Hugo Ribeiro

CROKÉ can be purchased online from Hugo Ribeiro’s website. See his portfolio for more of his designs.

Image © Hugo Ribeiro

Image © Hugo Ribeiro

*All images and information courtesy of Hugo Ribeiro.