Kaari Collection

Based on a simple, yet intelligent component, the Kaari Collection is the first collaboration between Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec and Artek, on view at imm cologne 2016.

When designing the Kaari Collection (kaari means “arch” in Finnish), Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec looked at Artek’s history with fresh eyes.

In creating a simple bent steel band to provide support for the tables, shelves, desk, and console in the series, they arrived at an element as practical and adaptable as the L-shaped leg patented by Alvar Aalto in 1933.

The principle behind the pieces is simple: the vertical load is supported by a wooden part. Bent steel banding provides elegant and transparent diagonal support. Both wood and steel banding are traditional materials that have featured prominently in the brands history, but they have never before been combined in this way. The interplay between the solid vertical board and the metal band gives the base a surprisingly light appearance and creates a distinctive linear silhouette. The surface materials, linoleum and glossy HPL, absorb and reflect light each in their own way. As the tables are used, an attractive patina will form on the surface over the course of time.

The task was for the Bouroullecs to design a product that would be both strongly linked to Artek and decidedly new at the same time. It should be respectful to Artek’s roots without making explicit reference to its historic products. As a system based on an intelligent, versatile component, the Kaari Collection fully meets these requirements, while remaining fresh and original in the products’ expression.