Scrolls, those ancient vessels of history, often conjure images of fragile papyrus that have managed to endure through centuries, carrying with them tales and personal narratives from our ancestors. The Alu collection by Archive for Space takes inspiration from this legacy, translating these age-old concepts into modern design. Presented by Béton Brut, the collection cleverly transforms everyday aluminum sheets into intricate seating options, offering a fresh perspective on material and form.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Archive for Space
Collection: Alu Collection
Presenter: Béton Brut
Material: Aluminum
Location: London and Mallorca
Photography: Thea Løvstad
The Alu collection’s centerpiece includes the Stool 001, Seat 001, and Bench 001, all crafted from aluminum that retains its simplicity while showcasing the potential for transformation over time. The metal is carefully finished to preserve its integrity, allowing it to naturally develop a patina. This gradual oxidation process enhances the surface, creating a unique pattern of colors that respond to the touch of human hands. The allure here is akin to the charm of raw denim, where each piece becomes distinct through use, with wear patterns telling a story.
The design showcases a minimalist brushed aluminum finish that interacts beautifully with light, creating an ever-changing spectacle on the furniture’s curved surfaces. This play of light and shadow not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also highlights its function as an inviting seat. The aluminum’s inherent lightness, coupled with its strength, makes it an ideal material for these seats, embodying a paper-like elegance. The thinness of the metal, not exceeding a few millimeters, adds to the pieces’ airy and graceful presence, reminiscent of a ribbon in motion yet robust.
Archive for Space, the inventive studio behind this collection, operates out of London and Mallorca and spans multiple disciplines including interiors, architecture, generative art, and set design. A key feature of their work is the ‘Archive,’ a well-curated repository of untold stories that fuel their creative processes. This platform underscores their belief in the collective power of knowledge and aims to provide a deeper understanding of the design world. The Alu collection exemplifies this philosophy by infusing historical context with contemporary aesthetics.
Founded in 2013 by Sophie Pearce, Béton Brut has quickly established itself as a purveyor of exceptional design, drawing from the rich design traditions of Europe and Japan. Known for catering to both private clients and the trade, their expertise in luxury furnishings and staging is unparalleled. The name Béton Brut itself, referencing the raw concrete finish seen in modern brutalist architecture, speaks to their commitment to authenticity and straightforwardness. This ethos of original, honest reflection is mirrored in their collaborations.
Overall, the Alu collection by Archive for Space, presented by Béton Brut, is a testament to the transformative power of design. It challenges conventional notions of material use, inviting us to reconsider what everyday objects can become through thoughtful craftsmanship and use. As these aluminum pieces evolve with time and touch, they tell new stories, much like the ancient scrolls that inspired them. This seamless blend of historical homage and modern design is both an artistic and functional triumph, encouraging a dialogue between past traditions and present innovation.
