Circular design in action: Eskilstuna prototype takes shape

Description process in Eskilstuna

The complex material process in Eskilstuna has now been completed after an intensive period during spring. Metal, stone and wood materials have been gathered from different local sites and are now being reused in the construction of the urban furniture prototype.

The prototype brings together several reclaimed material streams. Aspen logs have been processed, milled and shaped into structural elements, while oak and granite are being used for the seating and foundation parts. Recycled stainless steel, salvaged from shelving units in a preschool scheduled for demolition, has also been cut, folded and rolled to become part of the final structure.

This hands-on process has required both technical adaptation and craftsmanship. The timber elements were shaped and bent into curved structural forms, while the roof frame was assembled in an inverted position before being lifted and suspended above the foundation. The stone and oak elements were also mechanically locked together, creating a stable base for the furniture.

Key updates

The building of the prototype is now nearly finished and is expected to be ready to be presented during the SET-PED conference in Eskilstuna on 26–27 May.

This marks an important milestone for the local team, as the prototype is moving from material collection and workshop testing towards its public presentation and future installation in the park.

Impressions

The process has been both challenging and inspiring. Working with reused materials means adapting to what is available, coordinating with different subcontractors and finding practical solutions in a context where routines for real circularity in design and construction are still emerging.

At the same time, the work has opened up interesting opportunities for collaboration. A valuable synergy has been created with the parallel Interreg project Waste to Value, together with the municipal property owner Kfast. By connecting building renovation processes with the development of the urban furniture prototype, the team is exploring how local material flows can be reused in new ways and transformed into public value.

The Eskilstuna experience shows that circular design is not only about reusing materials, but also about developing new ways of working between designers, municipalities, property owners, subcontractors and local communities.

Next step

The team is now preparing for the launch of the furniture in the park. Locally, the co-creation process remains an important part of the work, especially in relation to how the design, form and placement of the furniture can enhance the park environment and respond to local needs.

In the coming period, the partners will also continue planning local dissemination activities connected to the development of the project’s roadmap and design manual. The lessons learned from the Eskilstuna prototype will help inform future circular design processes and support the wider ambition of SET-PED to test more sustainable, place-based solutions for urban public spaces.

Acknowledgements: Special thanks to the Eskilstuna Municipality team for their coordination and local support throughout the process. We also warmly thank Torsten and Hyekyung Imottesjo, who designed the prototype, trained the builders, and contributed directly to the construction of the first prototype in Eskilstuna.

Photo credits: Magnus Örnhammar, for documenting the process and capturing the development of the Eskilstuna prototype.