Aldo Bakker, Particles Gallery

A new wooden chair and a porcelain water jug prompt unconventional usage.

In Milan, Aldo Bakker presents a collection designed for the Dutch Particles gallery, including a porcelain water jug that asks users to handle it differently. I like this fluid physical action in which the water pours out of the upper part but the jug sits horizontally; then, when it is empty you upturn it to protect a cup, explains the Dutch designer. I often think products are over-designed, so much so that they become pointless when left by themselves. I would like to give my products a soul, a presence, also when they are not in use.

The new products include a new wooden chaise longue (to be presented in Basel in June), which is reduced to just five pieces in two shapes (legs and seat). Three legs are placed centrally and the back is set parallel to the seat for greater comfort. There is also a new version of the Tonus stool, fashioned by hand from a single piece of oak – a small structure that Bakker hopes highlights the tension needed to create it.

The Dutch designer has also focused on a handle for the first time. Made of brass, it was designed to change over time and only takes on its final colour with use; the grip, which is the part most frequently touched, becomes shiny whereas the mechanism, which is never touched, oxidises and quickly turns black. ES

Via Privata Oslavia 8, Milan
12-17.04.2011, 10 am-8 pm
The porcelain water jug distributed by Particles Gallery.
The porcelain water jug distributed by Particles Gallery.
3DWN1UP chair by Aldo Bakker in elm wood. Production: Kuperus and Gardenier. Distribution: Particles Gallery. Photo: Erik and Petra Hesmerg.
3DWN1UP chair by Aldo Bakker in elm wood. Production: Kuperus and Gardenier. Distribution: Particles Gallery. Photo: Erik and Petra Hesmerg.
The porcelain water jug distributed by Particles Gallery.
The porcelain water jug distributed by Particles Gallery.
The Tonus stool in wood (foreground).
The Tonus stool in wood (foreground).
Izé, handle made of brass.
Izé, handle made of brass.

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