German Designer Wins Award for Stool Made From Leather Waste

German industrial designer Friedrich Gerlach received a 2025 Rising Talent Award today for his innovative Lecrase Stool, constructed entirely from leather offcuts.

The stool, unveiled at the Maison&Objet trade fair, appears to be made of plywood, but is in fact skillfully folded leather sourced from the automotive and fashion industries. Gerlach’s design utilizes the material’s inherent strength to create a self-supporting structure. This approach to design highlights a growing trend toward sustainable practices within the industry.

“In a world where increasing consumption generates more leftover materials, I see these not as waste, but as valuable resources,” Gerlach stated. “I find it exciting to work with what’s already there – designing in a way that anticipates transformation, reuse, or even disappearance.” The award recognizes emerging talent pushing boundaries in design and material innovation, as reported by Maison&Objet.

The use of recycled materials in furniture design is gaining traction as consumers and manufacturers alike seek more environmentally responsible options; you can learn more about recycling and waste reduction from the Environmental Protection Agency. Gerlach’s work demonstrates the potential for transforming industrial byproducts into functional and aesthetically pleasing objects.

Officials stated that Gerlach will be featured in a showcase of Rising Talent Award winners at upcoming design events.