Reinterpretation of classics: Noel Mercado and Knoll

A remarkable collaboration has taken place in the field of creative redesign: Renowned design brand Knoll has teamed up with up-and-coming artist Noel Mercado to reinterpret three of its iconic chairs. Mercado's ability to reinvent classic designs using recycled materials has impressed Knoll, particularly after his reupholstering of a vintage Knoll chair with vegan leather bearing the Kool cigarette logo.

In this latest collaboration, Mercado has reimagined the Cesca, Spoleto and Wassily chairs using materials typically found in a car wreck yard. The Cesca chair uses hundreds of the well-known Little Trees air fresheners, those colorful scented trees that have achieved cult status in pop culture. Mercado emphasizes the sculptural quality and vibrant colors of these elements.

Another creative redesign can be found in the Spoleto chair, which has been fitted with old car loudspeakers. The Wassily chair, on the other hand, is characterized by reused car seat belts, which take on a supporting rather than restrictive function.

These projects reflect Mercado's dedication to upcycling and his appreciation of 20th and 21st century icons. Earlier this year, he collaborated with Swiss modular furniture manufacturer USM to create custom pieces, including handmade vests and hats in signature USM color combinations, as well as a sideboard with an integrated coat hanger.

For the Knoll collaboration, Mercado was given complete creative freedom, which underscores the essential relationship between art and design, a central aspect of Knoll's philosophy, according to Suzanne Michaels, Knoll's senior director of global brand creativity. Mercado's work, which sits at the intersection of these disciplines, challenges viewers to rethink everyday objects.

These artworks will be available for purchase on Mercado's website (noel-mercado.com) starting Tuesday, with the artist receiving 100 percent of the proceeds.

Photos: © ADAM JASON COHEN/COURTESY KNOLL