In Seoul’s historic Dongdaemun district, an architectural marvel stands as a beacon of innovation and tradition. The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a masterpiece by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, reflects South Korea’s unique blend of cultural heritage and cutting-edge design. Recently, the DDP Design Launching Fair aimed to elevate Seoul’s status on the global design stage, positioning it alongside design capitals like Paris and Milan. Among the exhibitors, Articlier, a Seoul-based studio, presented a collection that beautifully aligns with the DDP’s futuristic vision, combining strength and light in its designs.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Zaha Hadid
Location: Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul
Design Studio: Articlier
Collection: Furniture and Sculptural Lighting
Inspiration: Joseon-era Craftsmanship and Modernist Design
Articlier merges tradition with modernity through furniture that balances machine precision with artisanal craftsmanship. Their creations pay homage to the elegant craft of the Joseon dynasty and the functionalist approaches of modernists like Poul Kjærholm. Based in the creative Seongsu-dong district of Seoul, Articlier thrives on small-scale workshops that emphasize meticulous craftsmanship. Here, furniture-making begins with the selection of high-quality aluminum, which is precision-machined before being hand-sanded. This process yields a texture akin to finely finished wood, marrying the industrial with the organic.
The finishing process involves anodizing, which not only ensures durability but also provides subtle tonal shifts that enhance the interaction between the pieces and their environment. Articlier’s latest collection features five unique pieces, including tables, shelving, and lighting, all reflecting a balance between metal and translucent acrylic. Each piece is crafted to engage in a continuous dialogue with its surroundings, presenting an ever-changing visage depending on the light and setting.
Central to the collection is the CA88 Table, a multipurpose two-tiered piece that combines a layered acrylic surface with solid aluminum legs. The table’s design softens the coolness of metal through its natural texture, creating a harmonious piece suitable for various living spaces. Also notable are the NK3 and NK4 Shelves, inspired by Joseon-era chantak. These shelves are not only tributes to traditional craftsmanship but also exemplars of modern functionality with their modular, easily assembled, and disassembled structures.
Adding a sculptural element to the collection are the CL12 Floor Lamp and the CL4 Table Lamp. These lamps are designed to stand out as statement pieces, captivating attention whether in use or not. Their intriguing forms make them both functional and ornamental. Finally, the RW12 Aluminum Table showcases the intrinsic beauty of anodized aluminum. Through precision-machined legs and a refined finish, this table integrates seamlessly with wooden and other textured furniture typically found in Korean homes.
Articlier’s designs are more than just furniture; they are pieces of art that embody the seamless integration of tradition with contemporary aesthetics. The studio’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in every piece, offering a fresh perspective on modern living while respecting historical influences. For those interested in discovering more about Articlier and their unique approach to design, further information can be found on their website.
