Search

Archive for Space Presents the Paper-Like ‘Alu’ Collection

11.15.24 | By
Archive for Space Presents the Paper-Like ‘Alu’ Collection

Scrolls are usually a delicate papyrus or pressed fiber pulp, surviving (or not) over centuries with essential information about our histories. They contain stories, personal accounts, journals, all filled with our ancestor’s thoughts and musings. With the Alu collection by Archive for Space, these notions are upended and upheld simultaneously. Presented by Béton Brut, these meticulously hand wrought aluminum sheets transform humble stock product into fanciful seating. The Alu collection includes the Stool 001, Seat 001, and Bench 001.

Two sleek, wavy metal benches with cylindrical legs stand gracefully on a smooth gray floor, evoking the futuristic spirit of an Alu Archive for Space.

The aluminum is finished uniquely, minimally changed after production to eventually patina over time. All unfinished metals, and even finished ones, will develop a natural oxidation layer over time, infusing the surface with depth and ranges of color. This will be especially interesting to see how this forms on a chair or stool of this nature, natural oils from hands working passively to produce a unique texture based on use patterns. Similar to the allure of raw denim, the customization and craft is in the actual use of the product, allowing the finish to speak for itself.

A modern, minimalist stainless steel bench with a smooth, curved design sits on the gray concrete floor, embodying an aesthetic reminiscent of an Alu Archive for Space.

Close-up of a metallic sculpture from the Alu Archive for Space, showcasing smooth, flowing curves and loops against a plain background.

A metallic bench with a wavy, modern design sits on a smooth floor in a minimalist setting.

A modern, curved white chair in the background and a metallic, abstract-shaped stool in the foreground, set in a minimalist room.

Minimalist bedroom with a white bed, metallic wave-shaped bench, floor lamp, and art piece with horizontal slats on the wall.

A sleek, metallic bench with a curved design sits on a concrete floor near a white fabric.

For now, the Alu collection sits in its original light, brushed aluminum finish. The arc of the seat is expressive, wide and inviting. One would almost imagine the smallest amount of give, highlighting its primary function. The interplay of light between the rounded forms changes by the hour, inviting interest at any time of day.

Modern minimalist bedroom with a curved metal bench at the foot of a bed with white linens, next to a window with light streaming in.

Minimalist living room with a white couch, paper pendant lights, a metallic side table, and a folded screen.

Incredibly light but strong, aluminum is an apt material for paper-like seating. The thickness of the metal couldn’t be more than a couple millimeters, adding to the grace and elegance of the form. Similar to an old-world ribbon on a statue, flowing in time yet set it stone, the Alu collection gives life to aluminum, allowing it to shine as a material.

A modern, silver, metal coffee table with a smooth, curved design. A beige couch is in the background.

A sleek, metallic, ribbon-shaped chair with a smooth, curved design stands on a concrete floor against a plain wall.

A sleek, metallic, curvy bench sits on a smooth, light-colored floor near a translucent curtain. A large, plain canvas is on the wall in the softly lit room.

Minimalist room with modern furniture, including a sculptural chair, curved metal table, abstract wall art, and a decorative metal wall piece on a neutral-colored wall.

Two people stand in a minimalist room with modern furniture and sculptures from the Alu Archive for Space, featuring neutral tones and geometric shapes.

Archive for Space founders Arabella Maza and Stephen Maginn

Archive for Space is a multidisciplinary design studio based in London and Mallorca, ranging from interiors and architecture to generative art and set design. This is deeply informed by historical and cultural context, neatly categorized in the ‘Archive,’ a database of inspiration from stories less told. Expanding on their ethos, they explain, “We are ardent advocates of knowledge dissemination, for we believe that design flourishes when it thrives upon collective brilliance. The ‘Archive’ hopefully unfurls a deeper understanding of design through our practice’s distinctive lens.”

Two people pose indoors, one standing and one seated on a curved metallic structure reminiscent of an Alu Archive for Space. The person standing dons a blue top and beige skirt, while the seated person is casually dressed in a dark sweater and jeans.

Founded in 2013 by Sophie Pearce, Béton Brut has quickly become a magnet for the best design from Europe and Japan. Working with both private and trade clients, their capabilities in luxury furnishing and staging are unmatched. Named after the brutalist concrete finish found in modern architecture, Béton Brut stays true – original, uncompromising, and honest – mirroring self with reflection.

A man and woman sit on a metallic bench in a minimalist room, an Alu Archive for Space, with a bed and a tall lamp.

For more on Archive for Space, click here, and for more on Béton Brut, click here.

Photography by Thea Løvstad.

Growing up in NYC has given Aria a unique perspective into art + design, constantly striving for new projects to get immersed in. An avid baker, crocheter, and pasta maker, handwork and personal touch is central to what she loves about the built environment. Outside of the city, she enjoys hiking, biking, and learning about space.