New uses for old pallets

We're constantly amazed by the creativity that pallets seem to inspire in people worldwide. Here's a new example: As reported on the Treehugger website, French architect Stephane Malka has designed a sun shade made from recycled wooden pallets. The proposed structure—a take on the louvered sun shade known as a brise-soleil—is intended to be attached to the facade of a student housing complex in Paris.

The pallets would be hinged, so they could be adjusted and moved as needed to provide shade and ventilation. Individual adjustments by residents would create ever-changing geometric patterns, adding visual interest to the building. On the website ArchDaily, Malka said he wanted to use existing materials to reduce waste and create something without generating pollution.

Click here to read the article and see photos of Malka's design.