Lufthansa Technik

Client: Lufthansa Technik
Collaboration Launched: Spring 2025 
Focus: Industrial Waste Upcycling | Circular Design | Aviation Industry

Every industry generates waste—but only the most visionary players are reimagining it as a resource. When Lufthansa Technik approached SMALLrevolution in the summer of 2024, it was immediately clear that we shared more than just a passion for innovation—we shared a commitment to building a circular future.

The Challenge

As part of their aircraft retrofit and recycling processes, Lufthansa Technik handles a range of components destined for disposal. Among them: GuideU lighting strips, used to illuminate aircraft aisles. These strips, though no longer suitable for aviation, remain durable, high-quality materials.

The question: Could these linear, light-diffusing elements be transformed into something entirely new?

The Solution

Together, we set out to give these materials a second life. Through SMALLrevolution’s in-house upcycling process, we developed a way to repurpose the GuideU strips into functional, design-forward products. This not only diverts valuable materials from landfills but also showcases how industrial waste can be integrated into circular design systems.

The Outcome

The result is a striking, bespoke collection of upcycled furniture—each piece crafted with intention and built on the value of transformation. What once guided passengers through aircraft cabins now takes on a new form, reimagined into functional design objects.

This collaboration with Lufthansa Technik goes beyond a one-off project—it's a demonstration of what can happen when industries unite to challenge linear thinking and turn waste into opportunity.