Desycling
Desycling was conceived by LSDP ( Latin Sisters Design Productions) which I co-founded in 2006 with Architect Caro Isern.
Desycling projects were about bringing together individuals, businesses, and public institutions. During these projects we worked on waste related environmental concerns by raising awareness in a practical and enjoyable manner. Desycling, stimulated creativity and inspired people to view waste and participation from a new perspective. Desycle Foundation was built on addressing the intricate environmental and social elements of our interaction with waste, transforming them into daily actions to foster more sustainable communities
Desycling Projects
In the vibrant Pijp neighborhood of Amsterdam, we embarked on a meaningful journey with De Regenboog Groep to tackle social and environmental issues hands-on. The mission was to create a project that not only supported De Regenboog's clients but also shifted the local community's view of the nearby homeless shelter.
Our solution was the “Desycle Production Facility”, a space with creativity and purpose, open five days a week. Here, clients of De Regenboog—individuals experiencing homelessness—were welcome to co-design and produce unique Desycled Products.
All activities happened through collaboration. Local shops and organizations contributed materials, which were then transformed into products sold in the organization’s shops. This initiative not only provided a sense of accomplishment and skill-building for the participants but also fostered a stronger, more inclusive community spirit.
Through this project, we witnessed firsthand how design activities that are community oriented can break down barriers and build understanding.
Transforming Perceptions in Amsterdam
Desycled flour sacks notebooks
Desycled coffee sacks DIY jewelry Kit
Desycling Amsterdam
In Amsterdam's New-West, together with the community we embarked on a project called Desycling Amsterdam, initiated by LSDP. For four months, 60 residents worked with designers to turn their household waste into practical design objects.
Empty cardboard boxes became handbags, plastic bags transformed into raincoats, and old magazines were made into jewelry. Even old clothes and furniture were repurposed into wardrobes and other useful items.
Some participants were trained as Desycle coaches to to continue project and propose new descyling activities. This effort took place at the temporary Desycle Center that was set up in the neighborhood. The project involved residents, shopkeepers, and local organizations who shared their networks and provided materials.
The result was a community working together setting up another Desycling center in the Westergasfabriek in Amsterdam with the purpose to share the outcomes of this -at the time- innovative project.
Find some more Desycling Stories Here: