"Think different" is the theme for this month's design wrap. From classics reimagined to installing art where one hasn't before, to ground-breaking new products and boundary-pushing stunts. Explore the newest and best from the world of design in our April 2018 edition...
The classic 1950s 'Pot' chair is reimagined
While it may not be as iconic as Arne Jacobsen's 'Egg' chair, the 'Pot' chair is still a recognisable design of the 1950s. Manufacturer Fritz Hansen recently relaunched the 'modest' chair, retaining the focus on durability and timeless quality while improving the comfort and exploring playful fabrics.
Images above: Cult from here.
Artist Jade Oakley brings nature-inspired art to Westfield Parramatta
Who said shopping centre escalators had to be void of design?
In a very subtle way, Westfield Parramatta, in NSW, now features public art on one of the most-used parts of the building: the escalator.
Working with Creative Group and artist Jade Oakley, two large scale integrated artworks can now be seen at the newly refurbished Westfield centre.
Made from Alucobond and treated in a custom shimmering treatment by fabricator Axolotl, the art features an "etched relief of the forest canopy" along with panels that are embellished with perforated leaf screens. The result is subtle, elegant and enchanting.
In the words of the artist Jade Oakley:
"I was amazed to find Lake Parramatta, tucked in behind a busy road, with some really beautiful original forest around it, including towering gum trees and mossy glades with trickling streams and tree ferns. I spent a day there sketching and photographing and thinking. These artworks sprang from this encounter with a surprising pocket of nature in a busy part of Sydney."
Images above: Jade Oakley - "Looking Up". Photography: Simon Wood. Westfield Paramatta, NSW via Creative Road.
Sound absorbing pendant lights from ISM Objects
Have you ever come across a multi-purpose pendant light? Well, let us introduce you to just that. The new 'Teamwork' pendant by Melbourne's ISM Objects has special acoustic qualities. Specifically designed to absorb sound, the pendant not only features an environmentally efficient LED lamp which diffusers light, but also a sound absorbing material. They say it's perfect for "working and meeting zones that want to reduce ambient noise".
Images above from here.
Drones part of the Dolce & Gabbana runway show
Milan Fashion Week saw many innovative ideas, one being the Dolce & Gabbana 'Secrets & Diamonds' show. A fleet of drones flew the leather and jewel-encrusted handbags along the runway, much to the delight of the hundreds of audience members.
Images above: Dolce & Gabbana
