Contrast, whether that’s the juxtaposition of textures, colours, or finishes can create a dynamic and eye-catching visual effect, adding depth and character to an object. The moment in which contrasting elements meet is an opportunity for the designer to celebrate the beauty of contrast.
The interplay of contrasting materials not only captures attention but also infuses a sense of balance and harmony into the design. This is not only true with furniture itself but also the space in which furniture sits; this is one of the many aspects the interior designer must consider.
Below is a selection of works from designers who we’re proud to represent within Movimento. These works all demonstrate creative and effective methods of highlighting the contrast between two materials.
Tim Vranken’s ‘Traaf Bench’ has a varnished oak seat positioned upon two pointed granite feet. The oak slab is curved at either end to perfectly rest upon the apex of the granite. By following the granite’s curve the form is uninterrupted, making the piece feel like a single unit. It is, however, the rich materiality and the tonal contrast between the oak and granite that separates these components, allowing us to appreciate them in unity.
Desmond Lim’s ‘Poise’ collection similarly contrasts timber with stone however Lim experiments with the concept of weight and the equilibrium two materials can have depending on their contrasting mass. The ash wood elements lack stability to therefore depend on the stone’s mass to stand upright. Lim is then able to create the stone bases in unique and unusual forms.
Glass that has a frosted finish allows for contrasts to appear softer due to the dispersion of light. This can create interesting effects as it blurs textures and colours to create an ethereal aesthetic. Dean Norton explores this with his ‘Containa’ furniture series where coloured, wood-turned forms lay in the centre of a frosted glass case.
Montserrat P. Benetts creates vases from blue-dipped volcanic rock which hosts a frosted disk that cloud the contents of the vase. Both artists create a similar effect by blurring objects between barriers, which in turn creates a somewhat ‘dreamlike’ appearance.
The pieces from Sipyeong Lee’s ‘Inlay’ collection are transformative, allowing for a single unit to become multiple segments. Upon the top surface a leather amber mass fills a void that appears to run deep into the metal’s core. The use of soft, tactile leather and hard, cold steel creates a contrast not only in aesthetic but also in touch.
SECOLO’s ‘Pingu’ experiments with the illusion of weight. A solid metal stand barely touches the rounded base which, through this technique, creates an elegant piece which seems weightless yet still provides the luxury of a solid metal finish. The variety of finishes SECOLO offers allows for a customisable piece that’ll match the surroundings or contrast against it.
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