HOLeD

Designing NYC’s trashcans for the next 100 years

New York City’s ubiquitous metal, mesh trash cans were designed 90 years ago. Their functionability, ergonomics, materials, and considerations of worker comfort were overdue for reinvention. 

We innovated on the NYC trash can’s age-old design with HOLeD, updating it for the 21st century. The project was conducted alongside designers Ari Elefterin, Danielle Connelly, Gabriel Gonzalez, and Gregory Beson.

HOLeD uses an energy efficient, closed-loop manufacturing system and Cradle to Cradle-certified aluminum to significantly reduce the City’s expenses and carbon footprint. 

With public sanitation top of mind, the top opening of the design deters illegal residential trash dumping and keeps trash from overflowing, with a concave base providing additional gripping options for sanitation workers. A grid of holes are strategically sized and placed to deter rodents, allow drainage, and provide a variety of handles for holding and emptying.

HOLeD aligns with the city’s move toward a Zero Waste to Landfill future. Its simple yet impactful design grants the NYC Sanitation Department maximum adaptability for the needs of all five boroughs, including their consumers and the City’s sanitation workers, all the while prioritizing environmental sustainability through its nuanced and economically sound design.