One Side Sawn is a minimalist furniture collection designed by Amsterdam-based practice Studio ThusThat. These items originate from a unique process where salvaged aluminum sheets, obtained from a smelter, are meticulously utilized to ensure minimal waste. The studio further extends the application of these crust sheets to architectural and interior design projects, offering them in diverse formats. The genesis of these aluminum crusts lies in the initial stages of aluminum production. Smelters pour the molten metal into colossal blocks, which are then trimmed to prepare them for further processing into consumer goods. The trimming process leaves behind large, thin plates with distinctive, raw surfaces, referred to as ‘crusts’ due to their rugged texture and appearance. Through this collection, ThusThat continues to delve into the narrative of industrial byproducts, transforming these aluminum crusts into a range of interior objects.

These pieces bear the marks of their industrial origins – jagged edges and textured surfaces that narrate the story of their creation. The design emphasizes sustainability, with items designed for easy assembly, disassembly, and recycling, embodying a conscious effort to minimize waste. The creative process behind “One Side Sawn” was driven by the challenge of utilizing the entire sheet of aluminum, thereby reducing leftovers. This approach resulted in a cohesive collection where the design of each piece is interconnected, highlighting the studio’s commitment to sustainable practices. This collection is a part of Studio ThusThat’s ongoing exploration into the environmental impact of material extraction, building upon their previous projects that investigated waste streams within the mining industry. By focusing on the overlooked aspects of aluminum production, “One Side Sawn” aims to shed light on the material’s origins and the environmental implications of its widespread use.