Ben van Berkel from award-winning architecture firm UNStudio, collaborated with manufacturer Artifort to create an asymmetrical chair that centres around the idea of flexibility and movement. Gemini comprises two asymmetrical designed chairs, and a matching table, and can be seen at the on-going 2014 Milan Design Week.
Image © Artifort
Gemini can be placed as single seating elements, or can be used in pairs, or groups of various sizes and configurations. The single surface body of the chair curves towards the floor on one side, and arches upwards to create the backrest and arm. This composition offers the possibility for the chair to be used in a large variety of seating positions. Essentially, users can sit up, slouch, lounge, or even twist, turn and swing around.
Image © Artifort
Investigations into ways of behavior and interaction, how we socialize and interrelate formed the basis of the design for Gemini and led us to study different seating positions: from straightforward ways of sitting to more unconventional modes.
Image © Artifort
When paired together with its “direct twin or mirrored twin”, the asymmetrical elements work together to create a lovely curvilinear symmetry.
Image © Artifort
Artifort’s ‘foamed frame technique’ and fabrication process worked perfectly with the double curved surfaces of the Gemini design and their craftsmanship in production enabled us to produce a versatile contemporary product.
Image © Artifort
The base of the Gemini uses a powder coat finish, while the seat shell consists of a metal insert that is padded with foam (foamed-frame technique). The seat shell is further covered with Dacron (Polyethylene terephthalate, or Terylene) and upholstered with a stretchy fabric. The Gemini comes in four different types of upholstery, available in one or two colours.
Image © Artifort
The matching small table uses the same construction principles. The metal frame is covered with cut foam and Dacron, and the underside upholstered in stretchy fabric. The table top is made of thick solid oak, finished an oil from the Artifort collection.
Image © Artifort
UNStudio considers collaboration an essential part of the creative process. When collaborating with our clients we always aim to explore new territories, which in turn enable us to develop our knowledge.
Image © Artifort
Image © Artifort
*All images and information courtesy of Artifort.
