The Marni Chair collection brings beautiful furniture into people's homes while also bestowing beautiful opportunities upon rehabilitated individuals. While designed by Consuelo Castiglioni, the chairs were made by Columbian ex-prisoners. Comprised of 100 different designs ranging from rocking chairs to two-seaters, the collection has helped prisoners transition back into as normal a social and working life as possible.
Presented during the Salone del Mobile 2012 in Milan at the Marni boutique shop, the Marni Chair collection will be sold until mid-April. Those leftover will grace other Marni stores worldwide. The collection is also part of the L'Arte del Ritratto project, a photo exhibition put together in collaboration with photographer and filmmaker Francesco Jodice.
Each furniture piece in the Marni Chair collection is made out of metal bases and multicolored PVC threads.
Former Offender-Made Furniture
The Marni Chair Collection Helps Re-Socialize Ex-Prisoners
Trend Themes
1. Prisoner Rehabilitation Furniture - Design furniture collections aimed for commercial sales that provide job opportunities to ex-prisoners.
2. Socially Responsible Interiors - Furniture and interiors for homes, offices and hospitality spaces that support initiatives of social and environmental responsibility.
3. Upcycled Furniture - Creating furniture pieces with materials typically considered waste or non-recyclable, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Manufacturing - Implement programs aimed at providing ex-offenders with new skills and employment opportunities in design furniture collections.
2. Interior Design - Collaborate with social reintegration initiatives to create interiors for homes, offices and public spaces that support material and social rehabilitation.
3. Sustainable Design - Develop innovative materials and designs that explore the potential of upcycling or sustainable production for a more responsible industry.