Exploring the Rise of Metal as a Design Trend

Metal has taken center stage in the world of design, with designers incorporating it into their projects to provide a sense of anchoring and durability. From galvanized steel to aluminum, metal has evolved from being a factory staple to a refined and textured material that adds sophistication to any space.

One example of this trend is witnessed in Supaform’s Mid-Century Journey collection, which was showcased as part of Alcova’s exhibition at the historic Villa Borsani in Milan. The collection features a desk, armchair, cabinet, and floor lamp, all crafted in chunky metal with a retro-futuristic design. The pieces strike a balance between vintage inspiration and forward-thinking aesthetics, making them ideal for both homes and offices.

The influence of metal extends beyond vintage-inspired designs, as it merges with modernist elements to create timeless yet refined pieces. The Furtiv LP table lamp, designed by Gaëlle Lauriot-Prévost and Dominique Perrault for Ozone Light, exemplifies this fusion. Its simplicity and pure lines give it an elegant yet stately appearance. Similarly, Studio Haos’s aluminum Lounge Chair showcases sharp angles and a striking profile that redefine the boundaries between form and function.

Metal also finds its place in more experimental designs, such as Ben Storms’s Alu Cast Marble Composition Wallpiece. Combining traditional craft techniques with innovative processes, Storms creates a piece that appears crushed by a block, reflecting light to create shades of silver and gray. This design approach adds an element of intrigue and conversation to the space.

As the trend of incorporating metal continues to gain momentum, designers are exploring new ways to embrace its potential. Whether it’s Verena Brausch’s Eternel Sans Temps XLong table with its thick stainless-steel base and thin onyx top, or Anthony Guerrée’s Figures chair with its modernist design sensibilities and mirror-polished metal finish, metal is being reimagined and redefined in the world of design.

In conclusion, metal has become an essential element in contemporary design, providing strength, visual interest, and a touch of sophistication to various spaces. Designers are pushing the boundaries and exploring the versatility of metal, resulting in innovative and captivating pieces that captivate the imagination. As we head into the future, it’s clear that metal will continue to play a prominent role in shaping the aesthetics of design.

An FAQ Section on Metal in Contemporary Design

What is the role of metal in contemporary design?
Metal has become an important element in contemporary design, offering strength, visual interest, and sophistication to various spaces. Designers are incorporating metal into their projects to provide a sense of anchoring and durability.

What are some examples of metal being used in design?
– Supaform’s Mid-Century Journey collection featured a desk, armchair, cabinet, and floor lamp, all crafted in chunky metal with a retro-futuristic design.
– The Furtiv LP table lamp, designed by Gaëlle Lauriot-Prévost and Dominique Perrault for Ozone Light, combines modernist elements with simplicity and pure lines.
– Studio Haos’s aluminum Lounge Chair showcases sharp angles and a striking profile, redefining the boundaries between form and function.
– Ben Storms’s Alu Cast Marble Composition Wallpiece combines traditional craft techniques with innovative processes, creating a piece that reflects light and creates shades of silver and gray.

How is metal being reimagined and redefined in design?
Designers are exploring new ways to embrace the potential of metal. For example, Verena Brausch’s Eternel Sans Temps XLong table features a thick stainless-steel base and a thin onyx top, while Anthony Guerrée’s Figures chair combines modernist design sensibilities with a mirror-polished metal finish.

What are some key terms and jargon used in the article?
– Galvanized steel: Steel that has been coated with a protective layer of zinc to prevent rusting.
– Retro-futuristic design: A design style that combines elements of both the past and the future.
– Modernist design: A design style characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and functionality.
– Craft techniques: Traditional and manual processes used in creating artistic or functional objects.

What are some related links to explore the topic further?
Supaform – The official website of Supaform, showcasing their metal designs.
Ozone Light – The official website of Ozone Light, featuring their contemporary lighting designs.
Studio Haos – The official website of Studio Haos, highlighting their aluminum furniture designs.
Ben Storms – The official website of Ben Storms, showcasing his experimental metal designs.
Verena Brausch – The official website of Verena Brausch, featuring her metal-based furniture designs.
Anthony Guerrée – The official website of Anthony Guerrée, showcasing his metal furniture designs with a modernist touch.