Project | Revisiting Gate 5, Melbourne Airport
In 2022, Cultivated collaborated with Melbourne Airport on the Gate 5 project, a significant milestone in their commitment to sustainability and a circular economy. This project was about more than just providing furniture; it was about transforming consumption and waste practices while supporting local industries and workshops.
Pictured: Refurbished Furniture at Gate 5, Melbourne Airport
Melbourne Airport tasked Cultivated with creating a lounge-like environment at Gate 5 with a strong emphasis on sustainability, all within six weeks. Cultivated supplied restored furniture from Woolworths and KPMG, including armchairs, stools, and sofas originally made by Australian manufacturers NAU, Ross Didier, and Jardan.
Pictured: NAU Chameleon Table
Cultivated focuses on extending the life of high-quality furniture to prevent it from ending up in landfill. For the Gate 5 project, Cultivated restored and refurbished the furniture to meet Melbourne Airport's high standards, significantly reducing the environmental impact compared to manufacturing new furniture.
By partnering with local workshops and craftspeople, Cultivated created job opportunities and supported the local economy. This project provided numerous employment opportunities, demonstrating how sustainability initiatives can drive positive social impacts.
Gigi Yuen, Head of Environment & Sustainability at Melbourne Airport, provided valuable insights into their sustainability strategies. Melbourne Airport's commitment to sustainability is guided by their ESG Strategy, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions and landfill waste. They aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2025 and reduce waste through improved resource recovery strategies. Melbourne Airport is also proactively exploring comprehensive waste management strategies aimed at significantly enhancing landfill diversion rates.
Pictured: Plumb Chairs and Aran Sofas by NAU, Harper Chairs By Jardan (Refurbished by Cultivated)
Incorporating circular design principles is crucial for Melbourne Airport, focusing on reusing and repurposing assets, recycling materials, and minimising waste to landfill. Regular monitoring and partnerships with businesses committed to circular economy principles enhance their efforts.
Pictured: Refurbished Furniture by Cultivated
Pictured: Refurbished Furniture by Cultivated
The Gate 5 project at Melbourne Airport showcases Cultivated’s, and Melbourne Airport's, dedication to sustainability, the circular economy, and local industries. This collaboration highlights the potential of refurbished furniture in achieving sustainability goals. Cultivated remains committed to extending the life of high-quality furniture, supporting local communities, and driving change towards a more sustainable world.
