Skoop: Sustainable Urban Furniture Through Adaptive Architecture

Project by Laura Sherman and Phebe Tam

Urban growth often comes at the cost of increasing construction waste, resource depletion, and disconnected public spaces. In this context, Skoop emerges as a groundbreaking response—an innovative architectural design that converts waste byproducts into functional, interactive urban furniture. Designed for Atlanta, GA, the project addresses both ecological sustainability and social engagement.

Sustainable Architecture and Waste Reuse

One of the biggest challenges in modern architecture is construction and demolition waste. The U.S. alone generates nearly 160 million tons annually. Skoop addresses this problem directly by using discarded drywall as its primary building material. Instead of ending up in landfills, drywall is collected, patched, cleaned, and transformed into modular urban seating.

This approach places Skoop within the growing field of sustainable architecture, where recycling, adaptive reuse, and circular design are not just optional but essential to future cities.

The Urban Context: Atlanta’s Development

Atlanta’s rapid expansion highlights the urgency of sustainable solutions. In 2017, the city ranked #4 nationally for housing permits, with over 36,000 issued. Yet, this development contributes heavily to waste streams. Skoop situates itself strategically at the intersection of Ralph McGill Blvd, Courtland Street, and I-85, addressing the needs of:

• Residential users: families, children, and pets.
• Commercial areas: pedestrians, shoppers, and local workers.
• Tourist zones: visitors seeking unique spaces for leisure and photography.

By reactivating underutilized urban land, Skoop transforms overlooked areas into vibrant, accessible community spaces.

Design and Fabrication Process

The fabrication of Skoop modules exemplifies innovation in sustainable urban design:

1. Collection & Cleaning: Waste drywall is sourced, patched, and prepared.
2. CNC Cutting: Drywall is precision-cut into ergonomic forms.
3. Layering & Binding: Adhesive binds layers into strong, modular seating.
4. Reinforcement: Photoluminescent concrete adds stability and glow.
5. Finishing: A waterproof coating ensures durability in outdoor environments.

The result is a modular, ergonomic, and eco-friendly product that adapts to multiple public uses while minimizing environmental footprint.

Material Innovation

Skoop’s material palette blends practicality with sustainability:

• Waste Drywall: Reused as the primary structural element.
• Glass-Fiber Mesh: Provides strength and resilience.
• Photoluminescent Concrete: Adds safety, nighttime visibility, and unique aesthetic appeal.

This innovative mix demonstrates how architectural design can integrate discarded resources into meaningful, lasting public infrastructure.

Community Impact

Skoop is more than furniture—it is a catalyst for urban interaction. By offering spaces for sitting, gathering, and resting, the project fosters social engagement in an environment shaped by sustainable principles. It encourages citizens to rethink the relationship between waste, design, and daily life.

At its core, Skoop embodies the future of sustainable architecture: a design that not only mitigates the impact of construction waste but also redefines urban landscapes through community-driven innovation. By merging ecology, design, and interaction, Skoop sets a precedent for cities worldwide to build sustainably while enhancing social life in public spaces.