ICFF Review: Eco-Friendly Leaning Molds By Maruja Fuentes

At first glance, we thought the bright green modular panels were just another decorative molded wall panel system. But the design from Maruja Fuentes is actually a very smart solution to looking at public seating in a new way.

Leaning-molds are an innovative furniture wall-system created for public spaces where, instead of sitting, an individual can comfortably lean against it for support. It is composed of two molds made of recycled plastic that are identically shaped. These pieces fit together like a puzzle. Together, they can transform a space, creating infinite patterns. They can be used either individually or in a composition.

The panels are molded from Recycled ABS. Maruja told PSFK that she worked hard to make the design as efficient as possible. Each module is free of internal structural ribbing which allows them to stack tightly reducing the container size needed for shipping. But they are also very strong. With proper installation, each ‘seating’ panel can sustain a 450 pound load.

Maruja has already completed installations of Leaning Molds in Puerto Rico. She would like to see the system adopted in overlooked areas like bus stops and train stations.