Sofia Orellano has a degree in Industrial Design from Universidad de la Empresa de Uruguay. She also attended an interaction workshop at the School of Engineering there, holds a Business English Certificate from IGCSE at Cambridge University. She is also a designer, journalist and graphic reporter. The company Mento designs and produces modular elements for urban applications in materials with low environmental impact. These products bring together ergonomics, aesthetics and comfort with appealing anti-vandalism solutions. Through research and the upgrading of public areas in 2012, mainly in Montevideo, Mento arose mainly as a solution to address the problem of vandalism in such areas. Mento seeks to make city-dwellers eager to explore new paths. To do this, it uses existing technologies in an innovative ways, so as to create a new cultural space. The company’s goal is for urban design to produce elements geared toward users. Mento addresses the demand for social interaction, its positions and needs for rest so as to turn it into a solution that brings together ergonomics, comfort and aesthetics. The Montevideo regional government currently spends nearly a million dollars a year in cleaning urban areas marred by vandalism. With modular benches, it aims that they last more than 20 years, with little or no maintenance. Mento seeks to promote the creation of a sense of community spirit and the decentralization of cultural activities by gaining access to a variety of public areas. The scope is determined by the population of the cities in which action is taken. According to the 2011 census, Uruguay then had a population of 3,251,526 people. Nearly 95% live in cities and towns. The numbers are similar in Argentina (91%), Brazil (84%), Chile (87%), Peru (74%) and the United States (79%). This urban growth creates a major opportunity to create areas that are pleasant and accessible for everyone. In 2013 Mento received an award from the Uruguayan Culture Ministry. In an effort to display versatility, when it comes to adapting to different urban settings, 15 Mento designs have been set up in Montevideo and Durazno. Mento makes pieces that are minimalist and versatile, with simple production processes for easy use and movement to other spots. They also fit in well in a variety of urban settings.
Website: https://mento.com.uy/