Danish companies Beyond Leather Materials and TAKT have joined forces to create a new line of furniture that combines modern Scandinavian design with eco-friendly materials. The partnership has resulted in the development of eight chair designs upholstered with Leap, a vegan-certified leather alternative made from apple waste.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone as it represents the first time Leap has been introduced in the furniture industry and TAKT’s inaugural use of vegan upholstery. Michael Lysemose, a product developer at TAKT, emphasized the company’s commitment to producing environmentally responsible furniture. He stated, “Leap aligns perfectly with our goal of creating products that are beneficial for both people and the planet.”
Leap is constructed from regionally sourced apple waste and contains 91% USDA-certified biobased content. The material is designed to provide a luxurious look and feel while minimizing CO2 emissions compared to traditional leather alternatives. TAKT’s popular Cross Chair, when upholstered with Leap, has a carbon footprint of 30.23 kg of CO2, in contrast to 64.58 kg for its leather version, showcasing a more than 50% reduction in emissions.
The collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to transparency and sustainability. Each chair features validated CO2 emissions data, enabling consumers to make informed decisions regarding their purchases. Lysemose noted the importance of this transparency and of obtaining the EU Ecolabel, which signifies reduced environmental impact in the materials used.
Beyond Leather Materials, founded in 2017, aims to be a frontrunner in supplying innovative alternatives to traditional leather. Co-founder and CEO Mikael Eydt expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating that bringing Leap into TAKT’s product lineup has been a journey of overcoming challenges to meet industry standards.
Leap is now offered in 1.5-meter-wide rolls with a variety of colors and textures, suitable for diverse applications, including fashion and automotive industries. The new chairs featuring Leap upholstery are available for consumers seeking sustainable furniture options that prioritize both style and environmental impact.
