India Macpherson
As someone new to apartment living, I identified a significant lack of awareness and options for minimising the issue of food waste management in small living spaces. When considering that over 80% of Melbourne residents live in apartments, this is a huge concern. "Com-pot" is a compact composting system which utilises Bokashi composting. It is both efficient and beautiful, designed specifically for those living in small dwellings. 3D printed with ceramic and with a built-in planter component, this sculptural piece will have those living in apartments itching to show off how they are combating food waste daily.

Self watering planter

In my research I noticed that existing precedents addressing food waste didn’t clearly identify ways they could directly benefit the user. The self watering planter element not only helps disguise the bin but also pays homage to the ways Bokashi composting can directly give back to the user, namely through the use of diluted Bokashi liquid as plant fertiliser. This tray is designed to only need refilling every 2 weeks (the same interval as the inactive bin needs to ferment).

Two bin system

The two bin system is designed with efficiency in mind, as Bokashi composting works best with two bins in rotations. Com-pot uses an active and inactive bin system to help new users navigate this type of food waste processing. While the active bin is in use daily in the kitchen, the inactive bin, once full, is disguised and out of the way as its content ferments over 2-3 weeks.

The inner bin

An inner bin allows for easy, light, and safe transport and an airtight seal allows for effective Bokashi composting. Glazed in white and protected by a waterproof sealant to reduce the porous nature of the ceramic medium, this bin is designed to be easy to clean when needed.

Sculptural and beautiful

The sculptural nature of this design combines beauty and functionality, essential to the efficiency needs of the apartment setting. In addition to the practicality of this, Com-pot will provide an interesting talking point for visitors, which I anticipate will encourage composting throughout the owners network. This is particularly true of the inactive structural piece, the stand alone pot plant version, which creates a large interesting living room focus as well as holding a pot plant.

Built to last

The structure is ceramic 3D printed with a threaded cylinder inserted in the printing process to fit 15mm standard outdoor taps and has holes set to work with any 96mm handles. This means it can be customised to fit in with existing fixtures on the market and furniture in the home. Damaged parts can be reprinted and replaced when needed as all additional components used are of standard dimensions, hence the structure is made to be maintained and to last for as long as needed.
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Promotional video

This video aims to capture how this system can enhance the lives of those living in apartments and help them minimise their food waste otherwise destined for landfill.
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