Rely ATD4 Black

Designer Hee Welling dedicated nearly a year to researching the right materials

for his latest piece. The result is Rely, an environmentally-friendly chair whose

modern shell is crafted entirely from recycled plastic.

The inventive recycling process – which Welling continues to fine-tune – sees the

chair’s black shells crafted from the black plastic panels found in a car’s interior.

Because the coloured shells require clear materials that will act as blank canvas,

Welling has pioneered a different approach for them, sourcing post industrial

waste. After being crushed into small pieces they are mixed with colour and

readied for injection moulding.

“When it comes to the environment, we want to do the best job possible

with the best materials available,” explains Welling of his decision to prioritize

sustainability. This ethos has extended to all aspects of the chair’s design including

its construction; should it require a repair, Welling has deliberately made it simple

to dismantle so that its lifespan is extended.

Renowned for his signature minimalism, Welling’s latest piece continues his legacy

of melding simplicity with practicality. Rely’s understated appearance belies the

thorough consideration that has been given to its ergonomic design, with each of

its curves developed to provide optimal back support.