Jablite, the UK’s leading manufacturer of EPS (expanded polystyrene) insulation products, has appointed Silo, a new design studio, as Designers-in-Residence at its Belvedere manufacturing site.
This unlikely relationship between a manufacturer of expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation products, and a pair of talented designers, both MA graduates from the Royal College of Art, is taking both parties in unexpected and exciting directions.
“We were very impressed when we saw Silo’s final degree show pieces made from EPS that we had given them,” says Richard Lee, Managing Director. “They were looking for sponsors to help them set up a studio; instead of cash, we offered them studio space on our site.”
Jablite soon realised that Silo are a creative and practical pair and began to see the potential of offering them a ‘residency’. “This is not something Jablite has ever done before,” comments Richard.
“But, we are changing the way we work, innovation of our products and operations is now central to our way of doing business and taking on Silo seemed an interesting step for us and them.”
Through a process of experimentation and trial, Silo has developed a new variant of EPS called; Not So Expanded Polystyrene (NSPS) and they have created some extraordinary and beautiful pieces with it, using handmade textile moulds.
“For us, the relationship with Jablite is a great opportunity. We can see how Jablite manufactures; the high standards it works to and the pressure of making quality products in large volumes to order and we can learn from that,” says Oscar Wanless.
“Our aim is to use the same material and processes, but in an entirely new way, in a way that enables us to find new potential in a familiar material.”
“Our challenge was to change the material properties to create a more durable, rigid and structural material that people will want to use and to keep,” adds Attua Aparicio.
For Jablite, this is taking their strategy of innovation and adding another challenging dimension to it. “Taking this unusual step promises to give us all an interesting and creative 2012”, says Richard.
“Manufacturers are practical innovators and I believe we can show leadership and demonstrate ‘practical innovation’ by opening our door to new partnerships and sharing our expertise.
“In return, we can learn from individuals and organisations – like Silo – that have no preconceptions and take us out of our comfort zone. In the short term, I am sure we will benefit from having Silo’s creative outlook on site. In the long-term, who knows where this might lead? I am keeping an open mind on that one!”
