Circular Design in the Garden

As a natural raw material, wood is ideal for recycling. Teak, in particular, is highly valued for use in high-quality garden furniture. Reclaimed wood features rich colouring and distinctive grain patterns that develop a unique patina over time. The reclaimed material comes from sources such as demolished wooden buildings or decommissioned boats. Other types of reclaimed wood can also be processed for use in new furniture, either in the form of planks or shredded into particleboard. Thanks to modern technologies, waste generated during wood processing can also be used as a filler in new plastic planters.

As a weather-resistant material, aluminium is one of the most commonly recycled materials used in garden furniture. Recycling requires only a fraction of the energy needed to produce new aluminium—and the metal remains essentially unchanged. For example, material from old window frames or beverage cans can be melted down and shaped into new products with minimal waste. Additional advantages for use in outdoor furniture include its light weight and rust resistance, which is further enhanced by powder coating.

More and more manufacturers in the horticultural industry are using recycled plastic for raised beds and planters. This plastic often comes from the ocean or household waste. For example, packaging for beverages made of HDPE or polypropylene has long been reused for weather-resistant and durable garden products. Recent improvements, such as greater colour fastness or the option of textured surfaces, are expanding the range of applications for this recycled material. Collections made from recycled plastic are now available in many colours and shapes, with wood or concrete finishes, or in other tactile textures.

Outdoor textiles must be resistant to UV radiation, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Modern yarns made from recycled PET bottles are completely weatherproof yet feel as soft as wool. As a result, they are increasingly being used in the upholstery covers of outdoor sofas and cushions. Umbrella collections are also enhancing their sustainability with durable recycled PET yarns. To conserve resources, textile waste is also being repurposed into new outdoor furniture or hammocks for the garden.

Upcycling used items also remains a popular trend. Garden centers and home improvement stores demonstrate how discarded items can be given a new purpose through upcycling workshops and DIY guides. Used household items, in particular, serve as materials for new projects: old ladders are turned into plant shelves, and discarded metal cans into flower pots. Wooden pallets also continue to enjoy lasting popularity for their transformation into garden benches or insect hotels. This repurposing of everyday objects not only conserves resources but also offers another creative option for garden design.

The upcoming spoga+gafa will showcase other trends in recyclable materials within the green industry. From June 22 to 24, 2026, the Living theme area at the trade show will feature offerings related to garden decoration, outdoor furniture, and shading solutions. International exhibitors will once again present their latest innovations in garden lifestyle.