DESIGN NAME: Binhi
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Multifunctional Bench
INSPIRATION: The idea for the Binhi came about when I decided to do something fresh and a bit more unconventional. Always one to be inspired by what I see in the environment, the shape of the seed caught my eye. I find its rounded forms rather beautiful. Its purpose inspired me as well as it represents growth and the beginning of life. The end result is a three-piece seating that nurtures the growth of life, converges people together, and fosters one's awareness.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Binhi means seed in Filipino. The collection is inspired by organic forms, and of these the seed is primary. One of the most important features of the Binhi collection is its faithfulness to the purpose of the seed- growth. The smallest piece nurtures vibrant crawling greens, while the medium-sized one supports a growing tree. The largest piece seats multiple persons. Here we hope to foster human relationships. It is in communication and interaction with his kind that human beings grow.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: The frame is a sturdy combination of aluminium tubing wrapped in rattan, providing a wide support for the seated individuals and the accompanying planter. The rounded form of creates a natural, easygoing seating arrangement, whether as a single piece or as a set, allowing oneself to indulge in the comforts of being close to nature while sharing in the moment with loved ones.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project was started in April 2015 and was finished in February 2016 in Manila, Philippines. It was exhibited in the International Furniture Fair Singapore in March 2016.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Furniture Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: It is the Eastern way to coexist and cooperate, thus, we allowed the rattan to dictate the shape it wished to form, and simply helped to guide it as it took shape. The pieces are made of both modern and traditional materials, combining them in a manner that not only highlights its organic appeal, but also showcases the work of local craftsmen. Using local techniques allowed us to underline the conviction that our natural environment is imbued with all the beauty that we need. The Binhi pieces aspire for growth, yet remain perfect in their natural imperfections.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Binhi small: 1300 mm x 1000 mm x 500 mm, Binhi medium: 1600 mm x 1000 mm x 600 mm, Binhi large: 1800 mm x 1000 mm x 600 mm
TAGS: Binhi, Ito Kish, bench, furniture, sculpture, garden, rattan, organic, natural
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: Keeping in touch with the idea of 'seed,' it was important not to stray too far from one's roots during conceptualisation, and to turn to one's natural surroundings for inspiration instead. By staying grounded with the design in both a literal and figurative sense, all materials were easily locally sourced from the Philippines, while the seaters shared an unifying shape and format - simple, but with the potential for growth.
CHALLENGE: We wanted the rattan to curve and bend naturally, allowing it to guide us on the general shape it wanted to take, while still conforming to the aluminium frame. We believed this would allow for a smoother finish as the rattan would be less prone to breaking or cracking, and would effortlessly embody the Binhi's concept of being one with nature. It was challenging to find a compromise that balanced our vision with the rattan's natural qualities, without us having to fight it and bend it too much in the way we wanted it to look.
ADDED DATE: 2016-03-28 08:26:14
TEAM MEMBERS (3) : David Pantano IV, Joaquin Talan and Anthony Lawrence Pontillas
IMAGE CREDITS: Image #1: Photographer Paulo Antonio Valenzuela, Binhi collection, 2016.
Image #2: Photographer Paulo Antonio Valenzuela, Binhi- small, 2016.
Image #3: Photographer Paulo Antonio Valenzuela, Binhi- medium, 2016.
Image #4: Photographer Paulo Antonio Valenzuela, Binhi- large, 2016.
Image #5: Photographer Paulo Antonio Valenzuela, Binhi collection shot at the Peninsula Manila.
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