Richard Hutten has designed Biota for Deberren, a chair made from an innovative plant-based leather crafted from the by-product of tea production in Turkey.

Biota is a chair created for the "Rethink Softly" challenge, initiated by Rianne Koens and hosted by Deberenn.

This project aimed to develop comfortable seating without relying on environmentally harmful polyurethane foam. Koens brought together eight teams of designers and material suppliers, each with a specific brief.

Hutten was paired with Wastea, a plant-based leather made from tea harvest by-products, who designed a durable wooden frame and connected the leather in a way that enables easy refurbishment.

By focusing on perfect ergonomics, Hutten demonstrates that high comfort can be achieved with zero plastic use.

This project has been shortlisted in the sustainable design category of Dezeen Awards 2025.

Studio: Richard Hutten for Deberenn
Project: Biota
Credits: Rianne Koens/Otura