Belgian Design Collective Overcomes Exhibition Setback with Creative Cardboard Recreation

FDT Bureau

Belgian design collective Zaventem Ateliers faced a setback when the majority of its furniture pieces intended for display at an exhibition in Mexico City got stuck in transit from Europe. Situated in a 19th-century paper mill outside Brussels, Zaventem Ateliers, comprising various design studios had to think quickly. Upon learning that the 35 pieces destined for the Unique Design X exhibition during Mexico City’s art week were held up in customs, the collective took action. Here is a detailed report on FURNITURE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (FDT).

Led by founder Lionel Jadot, the group recreated the entire exhibition using locally sourced cardboard in Mexico City, covering an area of 3sqm. Despite the original pieces being crafted from materials like metal, the studios managed to replicate them at a one-to-one scale within a tight deadline. Working tirelessly for 17 hours straight, they recreated the pieces and meticulously set up the exhibition, mirroring the planned scenography. The result was met with surprise and curiosity from passersby, who initially didn’t grasp the situation until the exhibition opened the next day.

Although the absence of the original pieces left the collective with nothing to sell, it piqued the public’s interest, drawing attention to their resourcefulness and adaptability. Displayed alongside other exhibitors, the recreated pieces ranged from chandeliers to sofas, tables and a large woven wall hanging. Despite the unexpected turn of events, the impromptu solution resonated deeply with Mexican visitors, sparking meaningful exchanges and garnering emotional reactions. The experience highlighted themes of resourcefulness, resilience and adaptation, aligning with the daily lives of many in Mexico.

Image credit: Moises Bautista