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Inspiration  Plywood power

Plywood power

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In the 1950s plywood was the preferred choice for designer icons like
Arne Jacobsen and Charles and Ray Eames. Now, after a few decades
on the sidelines, it’s back in business. So, what’s all the fuss about? We
asked Julián Velázquez-Vidal, Category Area Manager Wood & Fibres at
IKEA – and a passionate plywood advocate.

Let’s start from the beginning – what is

plywood?
“There are a few diferent deXnitions, but basically it’s
layers of veneer – thin slices of wood – glued together. The
wood types vary, it can be pine, birch, poplar... The result is
a very strong board that can be used as a Yat sheet or be
bent into shape.”

So, what’s so great about it?

“Where to start! Wood overall is one of the most
sustainable materials there is, and by using it for plywood
we minimize waste. It takes twice the number of trees to
create a chair in solid wood compared to one in plywood,
and still the plywood one is twice as strong if it’s made the
right way.”

What about the glue you use?

“Whenever it comes to chemicals, IKEA always adheres to
the rules of the market with the strictest regulations. We’re
also in the process of testing out formaldehyde free glues,
one made of cellulose and one made of soya beans.”

What more is there to say about the upsides

of plywood?
“Lots! It’s a very durable material that ages with grace. You
can Xnd plywood chairs from the 1950s that still look
fantastic and are great to use. Another advantage is the
endless design possibilities. Plywood bends and shapes
whatever way you want.”

Is plywood a Scandinavian thing – or is that

a misconception?
“To a degree you’re deXnitely right – plywood is very
Scandinavian, or at least it was in the 1950s when guys like
Finnish architect Alvar Aalto and Danish designer Arne
Jacobsen were on top of their game. But there were also
designer icons in other parts of the world who were
masters of plywood, like Charles and Ray Eames in the US.
In the seventies, the use of the material decreased
considerably and now it’s having a huge revival – you see it
everywhere. Needless to say, that’s something I’m very
happy about.”

“Plywood is a very durable material that

ages with grace. Another advantage is the
endless design possibilities. Plywood bends
and shapes whatever way you want.”
Julián Velázquez-Vidal

Stool KYRRE Rp 350.000

We love to see our customers get creative with our products. Go for it! But please note that
altering or modifying IKEA products so they can no longer be re-sold or used for their original
purpose, means the IKEA commercial guarantees and your right to return the products will be
lost.

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