HYBRID RACKSACK

Category: Accessories

This rucksack forms part of my graduate collection, Memory of Places, which explores personal and spatial memory through material, form, and functionality. Developed as a sub-project, the rucksack responds to the challenge of material waste by reworking discarded cowhide—donated by a fashion brand—into a structured, multi-functional accessory that bridges sustainability with refined utility. Designed for adaptability, the rucksack features modular compartments, hidden closures, and reconfigurable elements, making it suitable for commuting, short travel, or everyday use. Its construction celebrates the individuality of each hide, incorporating the natural imperfections and variations of the leftover leather to emphasise authenticity and character. Technically, the piece demonstrates a combination of traditional leatherworking techniques and modern design strategies. Hand-finishing, edge-painting, and reinforced stitching ensure the bag is both durable and elevated. The pattern placement was guided by the irregular shapes of the offcuts, requiring intuitive problem-solving and a sculptural approach to assembly. Conceptually, the rucksack echoes the broader themes of Memory of Places, where functionality becomes a vessel for emotional narrative. The use of salvaged materials becomes symbolic—repurposing what’s been left behind, much like memory reshapes and reframes the past. By turning waste into something valuable, the project reflects my belief that sustainability and luxury can coexist through intentional design. This rucksack serves not only as a functional object, but also as a quiet meditation on memory, use, and material transformation—bringing meaning and responsibility to accessory design.