Fantastic Plastic: 21st Century Chic
Mark Hermogeno
March 30, 2009
A few years ago I, like many others, became obsessed with a plastic molded chair that is the modern version of the classic Louis XV arm chair. Kartell, The Italian company behind the production of this chair, made 21st century plastic furnishings chic and stylish. From table lamps to lounge chairs, all forms of plastics are being used to create furnishings. We can find polycarbonate furniture and lighting pieces from table lamps to ceiling light pendants to desk and dining chairs.
I love visiting the Kartell showroom as well as other outlets where plastic is being used in a whole new, updated and upscale way. As I delve farther into the topic, I find that plastics are used just about everywhere in our homes. Epoxy, a thermoset plastic, was commonly used to seal garage floors but this material is now being used to coat modern European cabinet doors for durability and sleek look. This product can also be used to finish concrete interior floors as well.
Recycled plastic can be found in public restroom partitions to residential countertops. Many companies now sell products, from tile to furniture, made from recycled milk cartons and water bottles. So think outside the box when choosing furnishings and even finish materials and see what makes modern plastics fantastic and chic.
I love visiting the Kartell showroom as well as other outlets where plastic is being used in a whole new, updated and upscale way. As I delve farther into the topic, I find that plastics are used just about everywhere in our homes. Epoxy, a thermoset plastic, was commonly used to seal garage floors but this material is now being used to coat modern European cabinet doors for durability and sleek look. This product can also be used to finish concrete interior floors as well.
Recycled plastic can be found in public restroom partitions to residential countertops. Many companies now sell products, from tile to furniture, made from recycled milk cartons and water bottles. So think outside the box when choosing furnishings and even finish materials and see what makes modern plastics fantastic and chic.
The epoxy finish on these modern cabinets creates a sleek and shiny surface that is modern and highly durable. I love the use of the plastic based finish for the cabinets.
Several different plastics are at work in this great New York dining room. The Saarinen style dining chairs are plastic ploycarbonate on metal bases that sit on an epoxy finished concrete floor that is shiny, sleek and durable.
These modern lighting fixtures are creating by strands of fiberglass, another type of plastic over a round form that is popped or deflated after the strands harden. Another great and ingenious use for plastic and the fixtures are fabulous.
The Slow Chair from Vitra is constructed of plastic and is a great example of modern furniture design using plastic. It's sleek and chic. Also, the decorative plastic hanging decor is also constructed of plastic. I used the same product in a client's home to fill an airshaft that was surrounded by windows. It's a great conversation piece that is made entirely of plastic!
The new, modern, outdoor furniture being produced by companies like Kartell, are awesome and fun pieces. No longer do you need to dread finding boring patio furniture to furnish your outdoor spaces. Pick a sofa like this all plastic one to create an outdoor living room!
I love the combination the Diane Einstein mixed together. These other Kartell polycarbonate chairs truly create a modern statement. Placed together with epoxy finished cabinets and funky black and white upholstery, plastic is now 21st century chic.
Here fiberglass is the material chosen for these window frames. Fiberglass is strong and affordable for windows and is another great example of the use of plastics.
These vintage plastic chairs are right at home in this modern kitchen/dining area. What used to be so retro and vintage are now modern chic in today's interiors.
Related Stories
New This Week
4 New Kitchens With Wonderful Wood Cabinets
Pros share how they used various wood species, styles, stains and details to create warm and welcoming kitchens
Full Story
Bathroom Design
5 Secrets to a Smooth-Running Family Bathroom
Pros say these are the must-have features for creating an efficient shared bathroom
Full Story
Kitchen Makeovers
Kitchen of the Week: Beer, Shuffleboard and Pizza Bring the Fun
Entertaining features and a warm industrial style create a lively atmosphere in this revamped Craftsman bungalow space
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Bedrooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Feather your nest in style with inspiration from Houzz readers’ most-saved bedroom photos
Full Story
Working With Pros
Which Pro Should You Hire for Your Project?
Find out whether you need a contractor, an architect, an interior designer or another professional for the job
Full Story
Bathroom Makeovers
Bathroom of the Week: Accessibility and a Relaxing Vibe
By Becky Harris
A design-build firm uses universal design principles when expanding a family bath
Full Story
Housekeeping
How to Clean Your Windows and Keep Them Streak-Free
Try these tips, tricks and tools to wash your windows so they’re crystal clear
Full Story
Entryways
The 10 Most Popular Entries and Mudrooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for storage setups, color schemes and special details from the most-saved entry photos so far this year
Full Story
Kitchen Design
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Porches
Porch of the Week: Catching a Breeze in Austin, Texas
By Becky Harris
The new screened-in space has a beautiful fireplace as a focal point and includes lounging and dining spaces
Full Story
I love your ideabook! Another great plastic piece is the Globus Chair. This chair is versatile and can be used in your home, commercial spaces and even outside. It’s comfortable for any setting!
Best,
Jill@DWR