In the fifth episode of our video podcast Espacios que Hablan our Interior Design Director, Laura Huerta, and Enrique Quirós Domínguez, Specification Manager at Sonae Arauco, discussed how technology has been key in positioning recycled wood as a real, sustainable, efficient, and high-quality alternative in today’s design and construction industries.
During the conversation, Enrique emphasizes how technological advances have radically transformed the perception of this material: “Since the 1990s, when we began to incorporate recycled wood, there was already specific machinery for it, but it has evolved tremendously. That’s why we can now reach 70%, and we believe the goal of 90% recycled wood will be achievable in just a few years.”
This type of industrial development has made it possible for a material once considered low-grade or residual to become a key component in sustainable design, capable of meeting the highest technical and aesthetic standards.
Technology and innovation: the heart of the change
One of the central themes of the episode is the role of Industry 4.0 and artificial vision systems in the advanced processing of recycled wood. Thanks to the integration of these technologies, the material undergoes a thorough cleaning process, identifying and removing impurities, splinters, adhesive residues, nails, and other unwanted elements with a level of precision that would be impossible to achieve manually.
As Enrique states: “Everything related to 4.0 technology is allowing us to offer a product with even better quality than one made with 100% natural wood.”
Moreover, the use of smart sensors, algorithms, and automation ensures comprehensive control of every step in the process, guaranteeing full traceability of the material—from its origin to its integration into interior design, furniture, or architectural projects.
Thanks to these innovations, not only is it possible to reach a composition of up to 90% recycled material, but also to ensure a level of consistency and performance that is comparable to—or even superior to—that of virgin materials.
Superior quality
The idea that recycled equals lower quality has now been entirely left behind. Recycled wood is no longer just an eco-friendly choice—it’s also a commitment to quality, durability, and sophisticated design. The combination of cutting-edge technology and a sustainable vision has made it possible to deliver products with high added value, even for the most demanding projects.
As mentioned in the episode, this opens new opportunities for high-end hospitality and interior design, where sustainability is a must, yet there is no room to compromise on aesthetic excellence or technical performance.
📺 Watch this excerpt on YouTube and dive into this discussion about the future of luxury hotel interior design.
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