The Unsleepy Series, created by carpenter. CHanhyeok Kim, represents a pioneering exploration of material hybridity, using repurposed coffee grounds to redefine sustainable furniture design. This innovative collection transforms coffee waste into a composite called Coffee Dough, merging environmental consciousness with functional artistry.

At the heart of the project is a commitment to sustainability, as Kim seeks to address waste in a creative and practical manner. By utilizing coffee grounds—an abundant byproduct of everyday consumption—the Unsleepy Series champions recycling and challenges traditional notions of materiality in furniture design.

The furniture pieces are constructed using a mold, where Coffee Dough—a mixture of coffee grounds and binding agents—is poured over a cardboard frame. Once dried, this material exhibits a texture akin to ceramic or stone, with variations in color and surface cracking depending on the mixing ratio.

The series features a range of pieces, including four chairs and two stools, each deliberately designed to highlight the organic nature of the materials. Kim intentionally emphasizes the natural textures and surface variations of Coffee Dough. For instance, the Unsleepy Chair 01 showcases the raw qualities of the material, while Unsleepy Chair 02 is inspired by the traditional split surfaces of ‘Meju’ fermented soybean blocks.

Beyond aesthetics, the Unsleepy Series encourages a rethinking of how furniture can adapt and transform within living spaces. The innovative ability of the first chair to flip upside down and reconfigure itself illustrates a forward-thinking approach to functionality, exploring new ways that furniture can engage with its environment and users.