Innovative start-up company Pallet 42 may be the perfect local example of the potential of upcycling, that is of transforming discarded material into items which are much needed. From unique, handmade tables, to cupboards and even feature walls, Pallet 42 has found a purpose for the ordinary pallet!

Michael Bonnici Kind, one of the guys behind Pallet 42, estimates that there is a large amount of wastage when it comes to wooden pallets on The Maltese Islands. “It’s hard to say how much, since we use such a small percentage of what’s out there," he tells me. "But we know that there is a lot of wastage on the island.”

Michael took over operations from Daniel Micallef Borg, the founder of Pallet 42, who had the original idea of making furniture out of pallets. “I was coming back from some travels and was looking for something to do in Malta,” he explains. 

And, since their inception in 2017, Pallet 42 have created all types of furniture, both for indoors and outdoors. “Tables, cabinets, feature walls, wine racks, benches, decking, pots/planters, beds, and the list goes on,” Michael lists, adding that “apart from home furniture we have also made a number of pieces for schools, events and companies.”

But how did they come up with that idiosyncratic name? “The first time we collected pallets, 42 fit in the van. It’s as simple as that,” Michael smiles.

Asked about any exciting projects coming up for 2019, Michael says, “I would have to say my place. I am looking forward to getting pieces custom made for myself including a dining table, coffee table, TV unit, feature walls, an internal door and, hopefully, a small kitchenette.” That’s pretty impressive when you think that the material would have otherwise gone to waste! Instead, it is being used to make beautiful furniture.

The pieces made by Pallet 42 are all custom made to order. If you would like order a piece of furniture, contact them on [email protected] or via their Facebook page. Follow them on Instagram to keep up with their inspiring creations.