The Union of Aluminum and Recycled Plastic: Alexandros Angelidis and Bonne Nouvelle
Luxembourg’s bar and restaurant scene has traditionally leaned toward the classic. When designer Alexandros Angelidis began working on the interior for the new Bonne Nouvelle bar, he aimed to introduce a different approach. The result is a space defined by restraint rather than excess, emphasizing functionality and an unexpected material palette that combines aluminum with recycled plastic panels from Plastic Guys.
Design that Steps Back for the People
The philosophy of Alexandros Angelidis’ design studio revolves around careful detailing and material expression, fostering a sense of connection between people, objects, and space. For Bonne Nouvelle, the intention was clear: to shape a collection that feels discreet and refined, keeping the setting open and engaging.
“We designed and manufactured elements that are sober and essential, with function and detail integrated without cluttering. The furniture exists to enable meeting and enjoying time together. The clients become the ever-changing ornamentation of the space, visually and through the atmosphere they collectively create,” explains Alexandros.
Why Recycled Plastic?
The choice of seating made from Mínus panels was driven not only by aesthetics but primarily by the story of the material. For Angelidis, there is a certain richness in using something that has already existed and carries a history. Furthermore, the panels do not hide their origin—instead, they promote the particularity of the recycling process through their patterns and textures.
Combining aluminum and recycled plastic was initially a bit of a gamble. On one hand, there is technical, monolithic aluminum; on the other, plastic full of visual depth and elements of translucency. It turned out, however, that these two polar opposites complement each other perfectly across various colors and textures of the recycled materials.
Craftsmanship in the Workshop
While recycled plastic requires a different approach than conventional materials, the designer praised working with the panels in his workshop.
- Processability: The material is very friendly to work with, even using common tools.
- Finishing: The studio achieved impeccable finishes with very little effort.
- Properties: The plastic offers a rare balance between functional rigidity, long-term resistance, and ease of processing.
Guests’ reactions to design elements made from waste
Various colors and textures of panels were ordered for the bar, creating a natural variation in the interior. Guests often stop by the stools to examine the intricacies of the material.
“People are often surprised to know that they are sitting on what was once considered waste and is now a beautiful, functional material,” adds Alexandros.
The collaboration on the Bonne Nouvelle project demonstrates that recycled materials are now a full-fledged (and often cost-effective) alternative to virgin resources, without having to sacrifice design or durability. For Alexandros Angelidis Studio, this is the direction they intend to pursue in future projects.
