Rethinking Waste

Rethinking Waste: Our Sea-Plastic Bike Concept for Spoon Customs

REAFE STUDIO partnered with Spoon Customs to develop an early design direction for an innovative bicycle made entirely from repurposed sea plastic. Created to meet rigorous industrial design and environmental standards, the project explores how intelligent form, refined detailing and responsible material choices can shape a new generation of sustainable mobility products.

Inspired by the environmental realities of the Maldives—where ocean plastic continues to impact local ecosystems—the concept aims to transform waste material into a durable, long-life product using advanced 3D-printed DAM Strong composite (recycled fishing nets combined with recycled carbon fibre). Localised manufacturing minimises transportation, lowers carbon output and supports a circular, low-impact production model.

The design language draws from modernist principles, intuitive usability and the fluid geometry of the manta ray. Every component—from the printed frame and racks to the grips, saddle forms and integrated mounts—has been developed with highly detailed industrial design thinking, ensuring clarity, strength and consistency throughout.

Low-maintenance, corrosion-resistant materials, sealed systems and cradle-to-cradle recyclability were central to the brief. Integrated smartphone mounts, belt-drive options, puncture-resistant tyres and weatherproof components contribute to a resilient, long-lasting design suitable for challenging coastal climates.

This concept stage establishes a strong platform for refinement, CAD development and prototyping—demonstrating how ocean waste can be reimagined into a contemporary, high-performance product through REAFE STUDIO’s detailed, environmentally responsible design process.