Saskia Hübner’s Take on Designing with Leap®

Do you recall what your first thought was when you heard material made with apple waste and furniture in the same sentence? 

I first came across Leap through HolmrisB8 while selecting textiles. The product developer mentioned it, and I thought, 'Leap? Never heard of that.' When I found out it was made from apple waste, I was surprised.

‍Let’s talk about the chair design. What story did you want it to tell, and how did Leap^® help shape that narrative?

The chair is part of a collection which started with a sofa at "Danmarks næste Klassiker", where the brief was to create something new from used, existing materials. We reused old tabletops from HolmrisB8 to build the frame and selected different options for foam and upholstery. Leap supported that narrative beautifully - it visually fit the design and carried a story itself.

What message do you think Leap® brings into the room through this chair?

Well, most people don’t even realize the material isn’t animal leather until I tell them. And that’s the beauty of it, Leap doesn’t shout 'alternative'; it just is. That should make it easier for people to embrace. It allows them to choose a sustainable option without compromising on aesthetics or feel.

‍Looking ahead, do you see Leap or similar materials becoming part of your regular material palette? Is there anything in particular that you would like to explore next with it?

Yes, materials often shape the direction of my design. I’d definitely like to work with Leap again. For me, it’s about exploring what story a material can tell and how it can influence the entire creative process from the very beginning.

Do you think stories like this chair help people reimagine sustainability as something desirable rather than restrictive?

Absolutely. It proves that sustainability doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. You still get the same impression as you always got, it’s just made in a different way.

Were there any moments where Leap^® surprised you during the design process?

Yes, people’s reactions. Many can’t believe it’s made from apples.

Leap^® has a unique feel and visual identity, how did it affect your process in terms of color, texture, or form?

It’s a new material, so it requires a bit of learning, in terms of how to work with it technically. But we found a solution, and in the end, it looks great. I think it’s important that designers and manufacturers are open-minded to adapting their process.

Did using Leap^® mean making compromises in your design? Or did it open new doors?

Not at all. It didn't feel like a limitation, but an interesting add-on. We treated it just like any other textile.

Some might question the durability of a material made from apple waste. How does Leap^® compare to traditional leather in terms of look, feel, or usability?

In terms of look and feel, people don’t even notice the difference. It’s surprising in the best way.

What would you say to manufacturers or designers hesitant to move away from traditional leather?

Be open-minded. Don’t approach it by thinking, ‘This isn’t my usual leather.’ Think of it as a new material, with its own story. That mindset makes all the difference.‍

‍Is there one myth or misconception about sustainable materials you’d love to bust, once and for all?

That they’re somehow less considered. Every part of a material like Leap is developed with intention. I trust the people behind it, they’ve thought through every component and that every step is made with a good intention.

Leap^® contains 91% biobased content and is certified by the USDA. Do you think designers will start looking for that level of transparency in all their materials?

Definitely. There are more and more materials coming out, and we should be paying attention to them. As designers, it’s actually a part of our work.

If you could redesign any iconic furniture piece using Leap^® , which one would you choose and why?

The Wassily Chair by Marcel Breuer. I’d love to explore using Leap not just as upholstery but as a seating element, really showcasing it as more than a surface.

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If you’re inspired by Saskia’s thoughtful approach and want to see more of her work, be sure to follow her creative journey. You can find her portfolio on her website.