DAVID FLYNN

Alpine Cooler

Willow

2014

The Alpine cooler has been in the Willow product range for more than 80 years. In the 1960s Willow patented expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam processes to manufacture coolers and jugs for the hot Australian summer. This technology was successfully exported and licensed around the world. This process was used by Grant and Mary featherston to mould the lightweight shells of the Talking Chair. The 2014 Alpine showcases Willow’s innovation in process and product design with units assembled and tested by robots in the high-tech plant in Tullamarine. Industrial designer David Flynn has designed Willow products as a consultant and staff designer for more than 30 years. 

Photo credit: Courtesy of Ian Wong Collection.