The Portuguese design firm, Corque Design, creates innovative organically-shaped furnishings from renewable cork. (The cork tree’s fire-resistant bark regenerates and can be harvested every 10 years or so.) The firm features the works of several talented designers. The “Vinco” chair (above), designed by Toni Grilo, achieves its geometric form without the use of screws or glues.

Designer Ana Mestre created her “Puf String” chair (above) from a cork and natural rubber composite fastened together via joint screws.

Ana Mestre also designed the “Lagarta” modular cork seating system (below). Individual agglomerated cork balls can be arranged in an endless variety of shapes. Agglomerated expanded cork is considered the most sustainable of cork composites.

In addition to its fire-resistant qualities, cork is renewable, recyclable, durable and non-toxic.

If you’re in NYC later this week you may want to check out a special exhibit Corque has created entitled “CORK DESIGN INNOVATORS IN THE XXI CENTURY”, which will feature original furniture and accessories crafted in Portuguese Cork. The exhibit will take place at 410 W 14th Street (2nd Floor) from May 12-17 (11a – 10p).