A range of ten seats and benches made from Kebony have been created in unusual and eye-catching shapes.

Kebony, produced in Norway and dubbed the sustainable alternative to tropical hardwood, was chosen by the designers Freshwest Design and Goose Foot to bring beauty to Colwyn Bay whilst maintaining sustainability in the scheme.

The Colwyn Bay Waterfront Regeneration Project has seen major investment into the town's seafront, protecting the town and its infrastructure from exposure to the sea and predicted climate change for years to come.

Due to the exposed location of the seats along the coastline, Freshwest Design and Goose Foot required a material with the ability to withstand harsh conditions.

As such Kebony's technology enhances the properties of non-durable wood species to give them similar characteristics to the best performing hardwoods.

Through a sustainable process softwoods are impregnated with a bio-based liquid, resulting in greatly improved durability and dimensional stability.

Unlike tropical hardwoods or other treated timber products Kebony does not involve rainforest deforestation or environmentally-damaging treatment.

When exposed to wear and weathering, as this seating will be on the coast, Kebony maintains its durability and hardness, gradually developing a silver-grey patina which adds to its beauty and will be perfectly in keeping with the aesthetics of the seafront.

Kebony requires no maintenance beyond normal cleaning and so is cost-efficient, a key criteria for the town of Colwyn Bay.

Specifically designed to stop the public in their tracks and provoke discussion, the circular layout of the seating encourages people to continue along the promenade, up to the town centre and on to Old Colwyn, near Parc Eirias.

Graham Wood, General Manager for Goose Foot said, "This seating was designed in unusual shapes to create objects of intrigue and fascination - working with Kebony has enabled us to achieve this desired look along the promenade, with the intention of attracting visitors to Colwyn Bay for years to come."

Adrian Pye, International Sales Director at Kebony commented, "We are thrilled that Kebony was able to contribute to the installation of innovative and through provoking seating at Colwyn Bay. The natural look and superior environmental credentials of Kebony are well suited to the exposed location that often faces extreme conditions."

LINKS
Kebony
Colwyn Bay Waterfront Regeneration Project
Goose Foot