Ben van Berkel / UNStudio's new seating system 'Studio' will be launched this week by Offecct at the Salone del Mobile in Milan.
The new Studio series for Swedish furniture brand Offecct has been designed to allow for the creation of a number of seating units, each adapted to the needs of particular situations in terms of the number of seats as well as their arrangements and function in any given space. The designs allow for numerous group arrangements which can result in closed arrangements, semi closed and open arrangements, allowing for versatility in communication and privacy.
Ben van Berkel: “The concept for the Studio series was to create a light, comfortable and easily rearranged collection of seating elements which incorporate a variety of spatial gestures with specific emphasis on versatility in communication. The varied designs within the series cater for the needs and wishes of the individual in both public and private spaces.”
The Studio Twin creates a seating element for communication and exchange, whereas the Studio Easy chair Right and Easy chair Left offer possibilities for the user to choose between open and private arrangements. The Studio Twin Beam creates opportunities for use in public spaces and for more playful organisations in public settings.
The Studio collection setup has the potential for use in many varied settings, including airport waiting areas, lobbies, offices and libraries.
Ben van Berkel: “The Studio Twin design not only encourages communication by enabling the sitters to face each other whilst sitting side-by-side, but is also designed to spatially introduce two visual orientations to the locations in which it is used. The Easy Chair Right and Easy Chair Left are highly versatile, allowing the user to choose their level of connectivity to both the people and the space around them. Although very light and very compact, they are also generously proportioned, offering ample space for different sitting positions.”
In order to create a sustainable product, the shell has been designed in such a way that the complete Studio collection can be produced with two mirrored shells. In addition, the shape of the shells and the frame allow these parts to be stacked for space-saving during transport. In accordance with Offecct’s high demands on sustainability, effort has been put into choice of materials, energy, transportation and logistics to assure a product that has a minimal impact on nature.
