Ron Arad’s Concrete Stereo Revival: A Stone-Like Turntable Crafted from Recycled Plastic

Experience the bold blend of recycled plastic and brutalist design in the RA84 turntable, a modern homage to Ron Arad’s Concrete Stereo.

A Turntable Made for Rock Music Lovers with a Brutalist Edge

If you've ever admired the rugged charm of brutalist design mingling with your favorite rock tunes, get ready to meet your new obsession: the RA84 turntable and speaker set. This striking piece draws deep inspiration from Ron Arad’s legendary Concrete Stereo, crafted in 1984 — a time when Arad was shaking up industrial design norms by embracing raw, unconventional materials.

Unlike typical sleek audio gear, Arad’s Concrete Stereo unapologetically flaunted its heavy, rough concrete body, creating a dramatic contrast with the delicate, intricate electronics inside. It was a bold statement, challenging the idea that consumer gadgets need to look polished and pristine. The RA84, designed by Stu Cole, channels that same raw energy but takes a playful, contemporary twist.

From Concrete to Recycled Plastic: A Smart Material Makeover

Here’s where it gets really interesting. Though the RA84 mimics the heft and texture of concrete, it’s not actually stone. Instead, Stu Cole flipped the concept on its head by using recycled consumer plastics to recreate that stone-like appearance. Think of it as a cheeky nod to its concrete roots — the look and feel of heavy, raw material, but with a green twist.

This choice isn't just about aesthetics. With the mountains of plastic waste piling up globally, using recycled plastics offers a smart, sustainable alternative to heavy materials like concrete and stone. Cole’s RA84 shows that recycled materials aren’t just eco-friendly—they can be downright stunning when designed with care and vision.

A Refined Take on a Brutalist Classic

Stu Cole hasn’t just copied Arad’s work; he’s evolved it. The RA84 stereo set includes both a turntable and matching speakers. While Arad’s original had a rough, almost rustic charm, Cole’s version boasts smoother surfaces, save for a deliberately chipped corner revealing the rugged, stone-inspired texture beneath. It’s like a little secret peek into the material's raw soul.

The RA84 is available in two moody colorways: a classic concrete grey and a darker terrazzo-inspired black, adding to its ‘apocalyptic’ vibe. This design choice perfectly balances modern refinement with the brutalist ethos of unapologetic rawness.

A Circular Design Philosophy: Same Spirit, New Material

At its core, the RA84 isn’t just a throwback; it’s an evolution, proving that recycled plastic can convincingly replace concrete or stone in design without losing that tactile, organic feel. Stu Cole sums it up perfectly: “Same spirit. New material. Full circle.”

This project highlights how sustainability and style can coexist beautifully. It’s a reminder that even the most unconventional materials—like post-consumer plastics—hold tremendous design potential when handled with creativity and respect.

Wrapping It Up: A Modern Classic for Fans of Bold Design

If you’ve been longing for a turntable that’s as much a conversation piece as it is a music player, the RA84 is a rare gem. It captures the rebellious spirit of Ron Arad’s Concrete Stereo while embracing 21st-century sustainability in a way that feels fresh and inspired.

So, what do you think? Could recycled plastic become the new “stone” for future iconic designs?

FAQ

• What inspired the RA84’s design?
  The RA84 is inspired by Ron Arad’s 1984 Concrete Stereo, known for its brutalist concrete build and raw aesthetic.
• What materials is the RA84 made from?
  It uses recycled consumer plastics crafted to mimic the texture and heft of concrete or stone.
• How does the RA84 differ from the original Concrete Stereo?
  Stu Cole’s RA84 refines the rough original surfaces, offering a smoother finish with intentional roughness showing through a chipped corner.
• Are there color options available?
  Yes, the RA84 comes in concrete grey and a terrazzo-inspired black.
• Why use recycled plastic instead of real concrete?
  Recycled plastic offers a sustainable alternative, reducing waste and carbon footprint while maintaining the aesthetic weight and texture of concrete.

Love the RA84’s bold vibe? Bring this statement piece home and celebrate your favorite album covers with style. Shop your favorite album cover posters at our store here — perfect companions to your modern vintage stereo setup.