Recently, I've been exploring some fascinating innovations in corrugated cardboard design, and I thought I'd share my discoveries here. If you're following Kite Packaging on platforms like Pinterest or Twitter, you might know we're big fans of global packaging trends—whether it’s functional protection for products, sustainable materials, or striking visual designs. One area that has caught my attention lately is how artists and designers are pushing the boundaries of what corrugated cardboard can do.

Corrugated cardboard is an essential part of our industry because of its versatility—it’s easy to manipulate, cost-effective, and recyclable. It’s no surprise that so many creative minds have embraced it, crafting everything from stunning sculptures to practical furniture. What excites me most is how these designs combine functionality with sustainability, making cardboard more than just a packaging material.

Let’s dive into some of my favorite examples below. If you enjoy this post, feel free to check out our “More Than Boxes” board on Pinterest or reach out to us on Twitter @kitepackaging.

Incredible Innovations with Corrugated Cardboard

Christchurch Cardboard Cathedral

On February 22, 2011, Christchurch, New Zealand, faced one of the worst earthquakes in its history. Among the devastation was the iconic Christchurch Cathedral, which suffered severe damage. To honor the resilience of the community, Japanese architect Shigeru Ban designed the “Cardboard Cathedral,” a temporary yet symbolic structure built primarily from cardboard.

The cathedral stands tall at five stories high and can accommodate up to 700 people. Its construction uses 98 cardboard tubes, each measuring 60 feet long, forming the skeleton of the building. A polycarbonate roof ensures weather protection, while the cardboard itself is treated to resist moisture. Interestingly, Shigeru claims the structure can last up to 50 years and is more earthquake-resistant than traditional concrete buildings due to its flexibility.

For me, this project represents not only architectural ingenuity but also a message of hope and renewal. By using readily available, eco-friendly materials, it highlights the potential for sustainable solutions in disaster-stricken areas. It’s inspiring to see how something as simple as cardboard can transform a devastated cityscape into a beacon of optimism.

Cardboard Celebrities by Giles Oldershaw

Another incredible example of corrugated cardboard creativity comes from British artist Giles Oldershaw. His series of celebrity portraits carved entirely out of cardboard showcases the medium’s versatility and strength. By carefully tearing away layers of the material, Oldershaw creates depth and texture, capturing the essence of each subject.

My personal favorite is the portrait of Marilyn Monroe, a timeless icon rendered in cardboard with a whimsical “Please Recycle” tagline—a nod to Andy Warhol’s pop art influence. Other notable works include Greta Garbo, Isabella Rossellini, and Bette Davis. These pieces are anything but pretentious; they’re accessible and affordable, allowing fans to own unique artwork while supporting sustainability.

What I love about Oldershaw’s work is how it bridges art and environmental responsibility. Each piece can be displayed proudly and later recycled once its time has passed. It’s a brilliant way to celebrate icons while staying mindful of our ecological footprint.

Cardboard Furniture by Sanserif Creatius

Speaking of sustainability, let’s talk about Sanserif Creatius, a Spanish design studio known for innovative cardboard furniture. Their Bold Type Chair, made from 100% biodegradable cardboard, caught my eye earlier this year. Stacked 5mm-thick sheets form the chair’s structure, revealing the corrugated fluting beneath—a clever nod to typography with the letter “B” carved into the design.

But that’s not all—they’ve expanded their collection with equally impressive pieces like the “Hair Chair,” which features a soft fur-like coating for added comfort, and the “Prejudice” chair, which doubles as a multifunctional unit with hidden storage. Tests show these chairs can support up to 2,000 pounds without buckling, proving that cardboard isn’t just lightweight—it’s durable too.

As someone who appreciates both aesthetics and practicality, I find Sanserif’s creations hard to resist. They’re not only visually striking but also environmentally conscious, making them perfect for modern homes looking to embrace sustainable living.

If you have thoughts or questions about this post, I’d love to hear from you! Drop me a line on Twitter @kitepackaging—I’m always eager to connect with fellow enthusiasts.