Munira AlMulla is an architect and designer who innovates with sustainable materials crafted entirely from post-consumer plastic waste. As a fellow in the 2024 Material Lab Fellowship Programme, she embarked on a unique experiment to recycle plastic waste using everyday household appliances. Her goal was to transform High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastic bottle caps into a new material suitable for furniture or product design.
Munira AlMulla
May - July 2024:
Munira used a sandwich press for her first few samples. In each experiment, she placed cleaned bottle caps onto the heated surface. As the plastic melted, it fused into layered, textured pieces. The sandwich press allowed the designer to create intricate patterns that varied based on the colours she used and the order in which she melted them together. The results were glossy samples that displayed vibrant colours and designs ranging from terrazzo-like patterns to marble swirls. However, Munira suspected that the thinness of these samples made them more suited for works of art than usages that require durability.
August - September 2024:
After exploring the potential of the sandwich press, Munira turned to a frying pan. This time, she melted a bigger number of caps at the same time then layered additional batches on top. This method, which took several hours, moulded the plastic into the shape of the pan, producing a thicker, more uniform material. The designer believes the smoothness and durability of this result can make it ideal for uses requiring strength, such as stools or nesting tables.
Munira’s experiments demonstrate the versatility of HDPE-recycling and encourage further research into scaling these methods for larger production. Her promising results show that we can reduce waste by transforming discarded plastic into innovative design materials while also promoting a circular economy for the UAE and the world.
Munira AlMulla, an Emirati designer, holds degrees in Architecture and Urban Planning. Her work has been showcased at exhibitions like Global Grad Show and Dubai Design Week. She recently founded her own design studio, focusing on furniture and product design, known for its playful shapes, vibrant material, and emphasis on functionality, sustainability, and cultural relevance. Munira is working with plastics, bioresin, and sea shells throughout the 2024 Material Lab Fellowship Programme.
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