If you want to make real progress in sustainability, you need the right expertise. That’s why we’re proud of our sustainability officers, Eva Nijeboer and Meggy Smulders. They guided the visitors through how Gielissen applies circular thinking in interior and exhibition construction — from material flows and reuse to working closely with architects to anchor sustainable choices right from the design phase.
One of the highlights of the visit was a hands-on sustainability game. Participants worked in small groups with sheet materials and were asked to link four characteristics to circular applications. By doing instead of just listening, the connection between design, materials, and sustainability became clear in a playful and practical way.
The Cypriot guests were enthusiastic. “In Cyprus, we don’t yet have companies that recycle,” one participant shared. Curiosity quickly followed: Can you really reuse everything? and Is it more expensive to work with recycled materials?
It sparked valuable conversations about how circularity is not just a technical challenge, but also a matter of design and mindset.
For Gielissen, the real value of these exchanges lies in reciprocity. “We love sharing our knowledge, but we also learn from the questions people ask,” Meggy explained. “It challenges us to stay critical and reflective about our own processes and choices.”
The visit showed that circularity is a global ambition, but its practical implementation looks different in every country. By sharing knowledge, new ideas emerge — from concept to completion.
Being nominated by CBM for this visit is something we see as a real compliment to our long-standing commitment to sustainability. It perfectly fits our role as a partner who thinks along, innovates, and connects.
Designing for Infinity aims to give professionals from the wood and furniture industry a first-hand look at how the Netherlands leads in circular design and production. At Gielissen, we’re proud to have contributed to that mission. Every step, every conversation, and every collaboration brings us closer to a future where circular building is the standard.
👉 Want to learn more about our approach or explore what circularity could mean for your next project? Get in touch with us
