The Design Issue Volume 10.2 Shigeru Ban CEO Adam I. Sandow
Publisher Michele Caniato
Executive Director George M. Beylerian
Springtime in New York isn’t just for blossoming flowers—it’s Editor-in-Chief also that special time of the year when the design community Gabriella Vivaldi emerges en masse from the winter weariness and flocks to the trades shows, showrooms, events and happenings across Contributing Editor the city. Incorporating new technologies, innovative materials Andrew H. Dent, Ph.D. and manufacturing experiences, an interesting array of novelty Jessica Kleiman projects and products make their debut this season, proving that the business of good design is booming, Jennifer Dixon
Our annual Design Issue opens with "Where Architects Live," Art Director a special project developed by COSMIT for the 53rd edition Carlo Grioli of Salone del Mobile in Milan. This epic installation features a
representation of residential living by design giants Shigeru Director of Publications Ban, Mario Bellini, David Chipperfield, Massimiliano and Michael LaGreca Doriana Fuksas, Zaha Hadid, Marcio Kogan, Daniel Libeskind and Studio Mumbai/Bijoy Jain.
Director of Finance Also in this issue, Material ConneXion's sister company Matthew Kalishman Culture + Commerce recently announced two design collaborations for HOK Product Design, and in our interview Cover: with Susan Grossinger, we explore the background and Shigeru Ban © Hiroyuki Hiram inspiration behind HOK’s door collection with Lualdi, and
tile lines with Lea Ceramiche. The issue closes with Michele Caniato’s interview with Apisit Laistrooglai, Managing Director of Material ConneXion Bangkok, who discusses his expansion plans and the material resources of Thailand.
We hope you enjoy the issue.
Gabriella Vivaldi Editor-in-Chief
Copyright © Material ConneXion® Inc., a Sandow Company. | Matter® is a registered trademark of Material ConneXion Inc. MATTER® is a Material ConneXion® publication. For more information about the publication, or for advertising details, please contact: Michael LaGreca at [email protected] | (New York, N.Y. 1999) | ISSN 2163-7598 | $5.00 Table of Contents
Where Architects Live Architectural Products Unquantifiable Material Bits 09by Gabriella Vivaldi 17by Gabriella Vivaldi 31 45by Sarah Hoit Properties by Andrew H. Dent, Ph.D. Selecting products can be a Design is the balancing of form Architects have developed an daunting task for architects and and function. Sacrifice of one for internationally recognized style, As a scientist, there is a desire to interior designers. MATTER another and the condemnation/ a calling card that makes them catalog and quantify. However, interviews HOK, Lualdi and glorification of either extreme is instantly identifiable. MATTER our reactions to materials as Lea Ceramiche on their new common. Though fabric is often explores where they live. human beings still contains a surpassed in attention, it is the design collaborations. purely emotional component. ultimate synthesis, a structure in which form equals function. WHEREBETTER BOATS BEGIN
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LINAK_6x9_0114.indd 2 3/19/14 8:30 AM /where architects live
by Gabriella Vivaldi
Architects spend their days immersed in all things design for their clients—laboring over creations that often need to be as bold as they are practical. Conceptualizing unique, innovative spaces, or creating stylish and functional interiors are the bread and butter of the architect. Over the years, the best in the business develop an internationally recognized style, a calling card or cards that make them instantly identifiable—Frank Gehry’s bold use of curves, or Richard Meier’s obsession with glass, for instance.
But what about the most intimate of spaces, the architects’ own private residences? Do those mirror—or diverge from—their professional work? That was the question on the minds of the leaders of COSMIT, the Italian trade organization that produces the Salone del Mobile, one of the largest design fairs in the world. Salone—as it’s referred to by design aficionados—brings more than 350,000 visitors and exhibitors to the city of Milan each year. For this year’s 53rd International Design Fair, which includes kitchen and bath biennials, COSMIT organized “Where Architects Live,” an inside look at the residences of eight internationally- acclaimed architects, and their views on residential living.
Chipperfield© Ute Zscharnt 10.2 Matter 10.2 Matter
Curator Francesca Molteni—who is also credited with Salone’s “Design Dance” with Michela Marelli (2012) and “A Celestial Bathroom” (2010)—won the lottery with her latest assignment, traveling the world with architect and scenographer Davide Pizzigoni, who explores representational space and works with leading international opera theaters. The duo visited the homes of many of the greatest living architects, filming exterior and interior spaces, and interviewing the masters on their visions, creations and the decisions that steered their design and professional careers.
The team then recreated the private rooms of Shigeru Ban, Mario Bellini, David Chipperfield, Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas, Zaha Hadid, Marcio Kogan, Daniel Libeskind and Bijoy Jain/Studio Mumbai, through real-life videos, images, sounds, comments and reconstructions. The result is an interactive exhibition that unveils the architects’ visions of life at home, including their inevitable quirks and obsessions.
Bijoy Jain's House © Francesca Molteni
"Where architects live is a response to natural curiosity, but it also aims to broaden the vision of domestic architecture itself." Bijoy Jain's House © Francesca Molteni
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“Where Architects Live” is a response to natural curiosity, but it also aims to broaden the vision of domestic architecture itself. The underlying concept of the event rests in the conviction that, out of all of the design disciplines, domestic architecture is the most predisposed to evolution, and the best suited to experimentation, given its capacity to bridge architecture and design.
“The aim of the event is to explore the art of living today, with a close look at the people who are changing the face of our cities, the configuration of the global landscape and the collective imagination, putting the spotlight on new ways of planning domestic environments from every possible aspect,” said Claudio Luti, President of COSMIT.
Chipperfield© Simon Menges
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"The aim “This is the fundamental mission of the Salone del of the Mobile—cultural concepts that drive the sector.”
event Hosted in Pavilion 9 on the fairgrounds of Salone, is to explore this exhibit was on view for the duration of the fair the art of in April 2014. living today, with a close [email protected] look at the people who are changing the face of our cities."
Chipperfield© Davide Pizzigoni
14 15 /architectural products an interview with HOK Product Design by Gabriella Vivaldi // Interview with Susan Grossinger, Senior Vice President, Director of Product Design, HOK Product Design, Randa Tukan, Senior Designer Lualdi Collection. Valerie Greer, Senior Designer, Lea Ceramiche collection.
Selecting products can be a daunting task for architects and interior designers, who often spend hours poring over every detail of their projects— searching for the perfect chair or a light fixture that’s just the right scale. So a light bulb went off at HOK, a global design, architecture, engineering and planning firm—why don’t we play a hand in creating dream products for our clients, and those in our industry? As a result, in 2009, HOK Product Design was born. Now, the firm has partnered with the Italian companies Lea Ceramiche to create two tile collections, and Lualdi to design three doors. Material ConneXion sat down with Susan Grossinger, Senior VP and Director of Product Design at HOK Product Design, Randa Tukan, Senior Designer for the Lualdi Collaboration and Valerie Greer, Senior Designer for the Lea Ceramiche collaboration, to talk about the importance of materials, space and design.
Gabriella Vivaldi HOK and HOK Product Design are two staples in the architecture and design world. They understand space and its needs. What is the connection between the two? How do they complement and support each other in developing projects?
Pixel by Lea Ceramiche for HOK Product Design 10.2 Matter 10.2 Matter
Susan Grossinger HOK had a global leadership retreat in late 2008 called Blue Ocean (based on the book Blue Ocean Strategy), where 100 leaders developed potential ideas around uncontested space in the design arena. Product design was one of those ideas that allowed us to harness and draw on the knowledge, research and evidence- based data available within HOK. HOK Product Design became the first wholly-owned subsidiary of HOK.
We draw on the entrepreneurial culture embedded within HOK to advance design ideas and provide creative responses to the needs of our new and existing manufacturing clients. HOK is a global leader in the workplace strategy, corporate, aviation and transportation, healthcare, science, technology and justice sectors, so we have many experts who generate our product ideas. These ideas focus on existing gaps in the architectural, interior design, lighting, landscape and engineering professions, thus providing unique opportunities for our manufacturers.
GV How do you see the link between space and product? And how to they work together? Cedars Sinai Health Pavillion, LA
SG The link really is one that is created by conceptual vision (function, need, aesthetic) and actual application. Space is conceptualized around a program of requirements uniquely created to address a client’s vision, goal and need. Product is typically conceptualized in the same manner, and often created to address a response that will appeal to many. Our designers always consider how space— exterior or interior—will integrate with products that are needed to support the overall concept and the impact their application will have on the design. It is when the two are co-created or ‘visioned’ together and applied to both space and product that a strong sense of ‘linkage’ occurs.
Harlem Hospital Modernization, NYC
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GV How do materials impact the healthcare industry?
SG Materials play a critical role within the healthcare environment. Materials must be durable, easily maintained and easily cleaned to help with infection control, helping to reduce the spread of disease. A material’s performance and maintenance needs to be assessed before incorporating it into any project. "Higher Sustainability and life cycle costs of materials are also key factors that impact healthcare. Most -end healthcare facilities are very budget conscious. materials Determining the life cycle cost of any product can may be used help the design team in their evaluation of materials. The team must prioritize the materials. Deciding to transform which ones provide the best solution for a healthcare the more facility [is our] biggest challenge.The use of materials public spaces, impacts acoustics, privacy and overall comfort while standard for both staff and patients. Soft materials, such as carpet and sound-absorbing ceiling tiles, can materials may bring comfort under foot, help to buffer falls and be used in aid in absorbing sound from TVs, nurse and patient more critical monitors and other people’s conversations. Once spaces." the design team establishes which materials are the most appropriate and meet the performance criteria established for the healthcare project, they must decide where to use which materials to get the most GV impact to transform the environment. Higher-end HOK has a strong portfolio in healthcare design. materials may be used to transform the more public What is the approach to products in this field? spaces, while standard materials may be used in more critical spaces (treatment spaces, less public SG spaces). Materials are also used to help create a We have several different directions in this arena connection to the community that uses the facility. where great change is taking place. Certain products What is the vernacular or culture of a particular are focused on patient safety, where our healthcare region? A stone or wood used in that region may experts use evidence-based design to craft products be included to make this connection. The use of around safety, patient empowerment and decreased materials sets the mood, makes space a place and hospital stays. Others are centered on health and helps create the user’s experience. Unique use of wellness, and the idea that a healthy lifestyle is a materials can create landmarks and become a way balance of mind, body and the environment. We are of finding elements that guide patients, families and definitely looking at the aging population and how staff to their desired destination. healthcare is delivered by caregivers at all levels.
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GV VG What is your dream project and dream product? Pixel and Nest were inspired by an investigation of landscapes and nature. We were interested in SG creating a way to introduce color, pattern and visual I honestly have to say that being given the opportunity depth in our environments, empowering designers to run HOK Product Design has been a highlight of to work with maximum flexibility. Pixel, as the name my career—a dream, so to speak. I can’t say I have suggests, offers a spectrum of colors envisioned to a dream product, because I am so excited by each be used together as a field. Nest offers two simple new launch. We endeavor to be the best-in-class in shapes that can be interlocked in a wide variety of developing each of our products—whether because ways. We were also interested in the question of we are developing the most efficient lights or using scale. Lea’s Slimtech technology allows us to launch new technologies, introducing new construction these lines in scales that range from small and methodologies or simply improving patient safety and medium to extra-large sizes. well-being. Each product is unique, as children are unique, and has its own strengths and benefits. Having GV said that, HOK recently acquired BBG-BBGM, a global What is the role of ceramics in architecture and hospitality firm, which will allow us to ideate new interior design? products in a new and very exciting market sector. VG GV Ceramic was among the earliest materials used The collaboration with Lea Ceramiche included two by humans, with artifacts stretching back 27,000 collections of ceramic tiles. How did the idea of these years. With that context, it is tremendously exciting collections come to life? What is the role of ceramics to see how quickly new possibilities in ceramics are in architecture and interior design? unfolding with the infusion of modern technology. We can use it for exterior as well as interior applications, Valerie Greer landscape applications and furniture design. As Well, the goal was to introduce something new to the designers, we are at a point in time when we can market, focusing on commercial applications. Pixel completely rethink the limits of possibility for this is a ‘field’ of color—a blend of shades—born of Italy’s amazing material. coastal, highland and pastoral landscapes. Nest offers an infinite variety of variation in pattern, all of which are GV left to the designer’s imagination. HOK Product Design HOK PD and Lualdi launched a collection of three thought to allow designers to mimic nature—allowing doors. What is the role of doors in the architecture for innumerable shades and patterns and interior design world?
GV Randa Tukan As lead designer on the project, what was the Doors are fascinating—they can hide, reveal, isolate, inspiration behind Pixel and Nest? connect, separate, inspire (think of fabulous church
23 Pixel by Lea Ceramiche for HOK Product Design or castle doors). They can welcome or protect, provide flexibility, multi- purposing, be transparent, acoustic, made of gold or plywood. I was so inspired by visiting Lualdi’s stand at Salone last year. Every door broke new ground, was a piece of art and showed how inspiring great door design could [be]. It really opened my eyes. No. 2 Pouch MC# 7159-01 GV The Half + Half collection was Packaging made from created with small spaces in mind. coextruded high density What are the challenges when polyethylene (HDPE) and linear low density working with small interiors? What polyethylene (LLDPE) that inspired this collection? is suitable for recycling in municipal programs. RT The trend of “Micro-unit” living is Applications: growing very fast in all major urban packaging, for food, wet and cities. These are high-powered cities dry goods with high design expectations. There are very few doors, if any, currently on the market that allow us to deliver the high quality space and design that meet the expectations of today’s design-savvy urban population. This new door is an elegant solution, with a very simple and intuitive motion, maximizing the door opening to make tiny spaces feel bigger. Paying homage to Milan’s legendary fashion industry, this collection was inspired by men’s tailored suits: a play on the classic pinstripe, on the surprise of color in the pocket or the colored Metalon ® Inks lining that peeks through when the MC# 7167-01 jacket is opened. Best in show PrimePart® ST Water-based conductive inks [email protected] MC# 5687-04 for additive manufacturing of printed electronics. *HOK Product Design is represented Polymer powder for additive Applications: by Culture + Commerce manufacturing (3D printing) that has a significant elongation and elastic quality. printed electronics such as culturecommerce.com photovoltaic devices, RFID, Applications: touch panel displays and industrial parts, as grips, handles, sheaths tamper-resistant packaging and hoses, and as sporting equipment parts such as impact protectors Half + Half by Lualdi for HOK Product Design 10.1 Matter 10.2 Matter
MC# 2499-12 MC# 5219-02 MC# 5381-04 MC# 5429-22 MC# 5775-06 MC# 6345-03 A fiber that incorporates A woven, split tubular wrap, Plastic blend that is suitable Paper derived from starch Waterproof and windproof A printed durable polymer chitosan (a polysaccharide comprised of monofilament for the blow molding of extracted from potato waste, breathable 2.5-layer laminate layer applied to a base fabric sourced from discarded and continuous multifilament fuel tanks. a by-product of the food which exhibits dynamic heat that creates a breathable crustacean shells). (warp) PET (polyester). industry. insulation. patterned artificial leather. Applications: Applications: Applications: suitable for fuel tanks Applications: Applications: Applications: apparel and home textiles sheathing for cables packaging and stationery fashion upholstery and apparel and wires
MC# 7074-02 MC# 7127-01 MC# 7132-01 MC# 7133-01 MC# 7144-01 MC# 0027-14 MC#MC# 0027-14 7114-01 MC# 0027-14 TransparentHighly durable acrylic soft with touch light TransparentPlywood mosaic acrylic tile with that light is TransparentMulti-lobal polyester acrylic with (PET) light Lightweight textile composed Foamed polypropylene (PP) High strength polymer tapes diffractingmultilayer particlesthin film thatcomposed provide diffractingcomposed particles of waste that wood provide diffractingFiber with particlesa highly texturedthat provide of flax yarns cross laid in sheet that can be converted 11 times stronger than steel. uniformof 95% polyolefinglow when illuminated.and 5% uniformfrom discarded glow when skateboards. illuminated. uniformcross section. glow when illuminated. meso-scale ribs. into durable insulating drinking Applications: additives and coatings. vessels Applications: Applications: Applications: reinforcement for ballistics Applications: Applications: Applications: Applications: Applications: illuminated shelving, and poster illuminatedwall décor shelving,in residential and posterand illuminatedinsulation andshelving, filter and poster sporting and automotive parts protection commercialinterior automotive spaces. surfaces commercialcommercial spaces. environments commercial spaces. beverage containers
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MC# 7147-02 MC# 7150-01 MC# 7152-01 MC# 7162-01 MC# 7164-01 MC# 7165-01 Nonwoven continuous nano These metal items embody a Cushioning system that uses A biopolymer created from An engineered thermoplastic Spunbond nonwoven fiber webs, comprised of PET, constructive approach to the an array of collapsible square casein, a type of protein found honeycomb comprised of a textile from 100% rapidly PA6, PAN or PVB. destruction of war. cup structures to give support. in milk. co-extruded polycarbonate renewable resources. (PC) for energy absorption. Applications: Applications: Applications: Applications: Applications: filtration of liquid and gaseous jewelry and household goods cushioning and impact apparel, bedding and Applications: filtration, and disposable media absorption for flooring containers sports equipment textile goods
MC# 7168-01 MC# 7178-01 MC# 7181-03 MC# 7185-01 MC# 7186-01 MC# 7189-01 MC# 0027-14 MC# 0027-14 MC# 0027-14 TransparentHand crafted acrylic three- with light TransparentBreathable membraneacrylic with light TransparentPrinted ink that acrylic provides with light a Range of weft-inserted warp Tiles with a malleable, rough, Flexible laminate film, diffractingdimensional particles cotton that textiles provide diffractingintended asparticles an alternative that provide to diffracting“cooling effect” particles to thethat skin, provide on knitted fabrics composed of textured surface made from composed of 15% uniformfrom waste glow fabric. when illuminated. uniformanother glow membranes. when illuminated. uniforma stretch glow knit when fabric illuminated. substrate. polyester (PET) and nylon (PA) dyed snail excrements. polypropylene, 20% polyester,
fibers. 60% polyethylene and 5% Applications: Applications: Applications: Applications: proprietary ingredients. Applications: Applications: Applications: Applications: homeilluminated décor shelving, and apparel and poster illuminatedoutdoor apparel shelving, and and footwear poster illuminatedsports gear shelving, and poster flooring Applications: commercial spaces. commercial spaces. commercial spaces. protective apparel packaging
28 Become a subscriber. E-mail us at [email protected] Find out more about the materials on these pages at materialconnexion.com 29 /unquantifiable properties? by Dr. Andrew H. Dent
As an engineer and scientist, there is a desire to catalog, quantify and define all materials. The discipline of materials science has been doing that since the dawn of civilization (goldsmithing, the Bronze Age), though not until the late 19th century was there a clear understanding of the relationship between the physical chemistry and thermodynamics of materials. There are now myriad databases and software programs that lay out all the wonders of the physical, mechanical and chemical properties of materials, and we use many of them in our work. However, not one can get to the heart of how we will respond to these materials as human beings. This data can give you the engineering explanation as to why aluminum should be used rather than steel, or why a laminate would be suitable rather than a solid surfacing sheet, but not how we will react to it once it has been installed—whether it will look authentic, appropriate or even beautiful.
In the library and database that we have created at Material ConneXion, there is an intentional distancing from the engineering properties of the materials to the more emotional and human reactions. We know that a datasheet is not the deciding factor for a designer, but the response they have to the physicality (itself a rather undefined term) of the material itself. It is also the reason we use materials specialists, because no one has ever gotten valuable results from Google
Blow & Roll FiDU: the world’s first kilometre of the rolled steel profile. Featured in Material Innovation: Product Design when typing, “Needs to be squishy, but not too much when you sit on it, and it needs to look organic but with a techy aspect, and of course it can’t remind you of those 70s plastic upholstered car seats that burned "Nike’s your legs on a hot day.” Flyknit However, in this brave new world of big data, when flu is a great outbreaks, elections and who has just gotten pregnant can be predicted from analyzing trends in numbers, are example we too far away from an algorithm that can produce a of how a beautiful and arresting interior design for a new hotel, process for or the next shape and texture trend that defines coffee creating makers? To that I say ‘Ha!’ and ‘No.’ Because even with big aggregation sites like Pinterest that are visual and apparel can design-driven, we can understand that a lot of people be adapted are interested in different ways to spruce up mason to give jars, but It does not enable us to track the outliers, the sneaker single data points that at first seem insignificant, but herald a new way of using a material (or mason jar). design a Researching the buildings and products that were new lease included in the two recent books we published with on life London-based Thames & Hudson, it became clear offering that what made these projects remarkable was the creative way in which materials had been used outside colors, of their normal mode of application. The designers took textures and what was often a well-known material but, through shapes." their understanding of its properties, challenged our perceptions of what it could be used for or to what
Nike Flyknit: Lightweight running shoe. Featured in Material Innovation: Product Design it could be applied. Nike’s Flyknit is a great example of how a process for creating apparel can be adapted to give sneaker design a new lease on life—offering colors, textures and shapes not possible through more traditional construction techniques. The surprise and delight achieved in these designs came from turning the engineering-led idea of ‘appropriateness’ (there is a ‘right’ material for every application) on its head. Challenging the prevailing trend and thumbing its nose at the data points is what made these projects notable, and indeed forced us to rethink what is beautiful, enjoyable and of value.
The insights we gain from big data will continue to improve our lives and enable us to innovate in many areas of human endeavor, but let our creative arts live free of such analyzing and aggregating. Whether it is the development of knitted sneakers, the explosion of 3D printing or a new definition of beauty for interior spaces, the power of thinking outside the box and following your design senses cannot be underestimated.
Material ConneXion, in collaboration with Thames & Hudson, has published Material Innovation: Architecture and Material Innovation: Product Design, available at thamesandhudson.com.
Architonic Concept Space III by Zieta Prozessdesign Featured in Material Innovation: Architecture
Material-Connexion-AD.indd 2 4/25/14 6:06 PM Complex Signage Design Exceptionally Vibrant Unlimited Design Possibilities Photo By: Momentum Sign Consultants
Contact Us: 803.926.7926 [email protected] www.colite.com /chicago's plastic prophets by Victoria Matranga
During the 1930s Great Depression, manufacturers and retailers turned to design to attract consumers and boost sales. Artists, architects, auto stylists, advertising illustrators and theater designers became the first industrial designers. Chicago powered a diverse manufacturing sector and was a primary node of the national transportation network. Major national retailers, notably Sears, Roebuck and Montgomery Ward, determined the household goods that appeared in American homes. The city’s printing and publishing industry influenced huge national audiences. Chicago played a central role in the reshaping of products and perspectives. Chicago’s 1933-34 Century of Progress Fair presented technological marvels and celebrated innovation as it commemorated the 100 years since the city’s founding. During its two summers, the Fair dazzled 40 million visitors with exciting visions of the future.
In 1930, salesman James Barnes and artist Jean Otis Reinecke, both in their 20s, had come from a St. Louis exhibit company to find clients who would build pavilions at the upcoming Fair. They eventually designed displays for 25 companies. When the Fair closed, Barnes and Reinecke opened one of Chicago’s first product design offices and soon designed industrial equipment, office and consumer products and packaging for companies across the country. They also became evangelists for the emerging plastics
"What is a Problem?," story from Modern Plastics, June 1938 10.2 Matter 10.2 Matter
industry. From 1937 to 1948, Barnes & Reinecke (B & R) wrote articles for trade publications about the advantages plastics offered for color, expressive shapes, production efficiency and user comfort. Their media campaign positioned them as experts in the new materials while promoting their clients’ new products.
In “Design Dates Your Product” in Modern Plastics October 1937, Reinecke remarked, “consider design as a protection…Your only protection against the loss of "New sales is through the use of intelligent design. The time and effort expended on making a mold for a poorly and designed product is just as great as for a product with rapid appeal, but without the eventual sales possibilities mechanical to justify the outlay.” He also addressed the misuse of plastics to replicate past styles and finishes: “One advances of the greatest injustices to plastics has been their and new treatment as imitation…The design of a plastic product construction should be such that it cannot be effectively copied in materials another material.” already in use In the June 1938 Modern Plastics “What is a Problem?” make possible story, B & R used a home thermostat assignment to radically explain how they analyzed manufacturers’ common different problems in making profitable products. Their redesign replaced the thermostat’s drawn brass housing with fundamental ivory phenolic. The new thermostat, more efficient and designs for more attractive, was produced for almost the same all the familiar cost as the old. Its new housing also had “the qualities objects we of plastics—smooth, tactilely pleasant surface, permanent finish, attractive color and adaptability to see in restrained ornament.” everyday life" A few months before Pearl Harbor changed the future, in the March 1941 issue of Future magazine, James Barnes considered “new and rapid mechanical advances and new construction materials already in use (that) make possible radically different fundamental designs for all the familiar objects we see in everyday life.” He forecasted an increasing use of plastics and said that “color will be used a great deal more in practically everything that man makes." He closed with:
40 41 Futuristic Typewriter: publicity by B+R 10.2 Matter 10.2 Matter
“The kind of world the seer looks upon when he gazes Hauser applied lessons learned at B & R in his into his crystal ball is usually full of rocket ships and independent practice. Based in Chicago’s western radio operated airplanes. And maybe we’re coming suburbs, Hauser designed new products and to that. But before we do, I am sure of three features: suggested new directions for clients. For the Hawley universal color, beautiful working environment and Products Company, a molding operation based completely different looking objects of common use near his office, Hauser imagined (and patented) will be prominent in the next few decades.” concepts, such as waste baskets from rocket nose cones produced for the Navy, to show the potential B & R ballooned from 180 to more than 300 of molded fibers. In 1953, success resulted from his employees during World War II, when its engineering collaboration with Hawley and American Luggage staff was immersed in military projects. In January Works of Providence, R.I.—a 14-piece luggage set 1946 (in order to attract post-war business), B & R that sold for more than 15 years and became a announced to its staff that the firm placed advertising classic of the “Mad Men” era. in 11 national magazines including Modern Plastics, Machine Design, Plastics and Business Week. In In his 1970 book 100 Great Product Designs, Jay August, their Gibson electric guitar graced the cover of Doblin described how new materials and Hauser’s Plastics. In October, over three pages, LIFE magazine, design concept for the American Tourister Tri- which entered millions of American homes weekly, Taper Luggage changed its market. Luggage featured a photo of Barnes and Reinecke holding this had traditionally been made of wood, cardboard guitar beside their seven cartoons of silly imaginary and leather. American Luggage Works had tried postwar devices. to develop a process for steaming and forming plywood into a contour shape but discovered that Reinecke (1909-1987) also contributed to industry production costs were too high. Hawley proposed education. He wrote “Engineering Design for Plastics” molded fiber; Hauser created a simple form for the for the 1948 Modern Plastics Encyclopedia. vinyl-covered, fiberglass-reinforced molded luggage. His humorous drawings enlivened technical After determining the proper blending of curves instructions for how to create efficient forms for and contours for the basic shell, the team solved successful molding. the problem of how the two halves could meet to close securely. A stainless steel band provided a Molding a Mid-Century Modern Classic stable form, excellent strength, easy assembly and A teenager fascinated by cars and planes, in 1935 attractive appearance. at the age of 19, Jon W. Hauser (1916-1999) was the youngest designer hired by General Motors. From the 1930s to the 1950s, Chicago industrial After positions at Budd Manufacturing and Chrysler designers embraced the promise of plastics to (1941-43), Hauser came to Chicago during WWII to reshape products that enhanced everyday life and manage design at Sears, Roebuck & Co., the nation’s benefitted their clients. As Jean Reinecke said in most powerful retailer. Hauser joined B & R in 1946 1950, “Good design keeps the user happy, and the and continued at Reinecke’s new office after the manufacturer in the black.” partnership with Barnes ended in 1949. In 1952 Hauser opened his firm and, except for a year’s interruption Victoria Matranga is Design Program Coordinator for when he headed Raymond Loewy’s Chicago office the International Housewares Association (1960-61), he consulted until the 1980s.
42 43 Hauser American Tourister Luggage Set /material bits by Sarah Hoit
Design is a balance of form and function. Often, that can result in the sacrifice of one for another and the condemnation/glorification of either extreme. On the other hand, science and engineering fall squarely into one camp: function. Though fabric is often surpassed in attention by its glamorous offspring “fashion,” fabric is the ultimate synthesis, a structure in which form equals function. The properties of any textile are created by its structure, both chemically and physically. There are many ways to make a fabric. Two of the most familiar fabric formation processes, knitting and weaving, are the basis of most garments worn today. But there are many other techniques which have yet to permeate fashion with the same ubiquity.
A plethora of industrial and technical textiles exists today. Some support roadways, insulate buildings, protect crops, diaper babies or even stop bullets. In order to accomplish these tasks, each is constructed in a unique and specific way. From haute couture to industrial safety wear, new innovations in fibers and fabrics have driven apparel throughout the ages. Those focused on the creation of form have looked over the fence to industrial textiles—where function rules—to provide inspiration for, and even the execution of, their newest designs.
Spring-Summer 2014 Collection by Comme des Garçons Images Courtesy of Comme des Garçons 10.2 Matter
For the Spring-Summer 2014 Comme des Garçons collection, Rei Kawakubo presented a fresh take on her anti-fashion look; an exercise in non-clothing. Helping to manifest that vision was the ultimate “un- fabric”: nonwovens. These types of materials are "When the poster children of functionality, with little to no aesthetic intervention. Dramatic digital print patterns, it is neon colors, enormous cage structures and cascades of dimensional ruffles of the looks simultaneously time capitalize on the textile’s properties while concealing to move its presence visually. Looking carefully at the surface a design texture of the fabric reveals a fine pattern of diamond from page or shapes covering the fabric. Though they lend screen into an themselves to the unique visual of the fabric, these diamonds serve another purpose: combining the actual product, fibers together to form the textile itself. a host of challenges This particular type of nonwoven is spunbond. Please often arise." forgive a brief digression into analogy: Imagine those Play-Doh spaghetti makers, which take a blob of Why use this cheap industrial stuff? The ability Play-Doh in, and push fake strands of spaghetti out. to fine-tune the physical specifications in non- Non-woven production utilizes a similar technique; woven fabrics makes them a go-to for industrial melted plastic passes through tiny holes to create applications, executing precise demands such as endless fibers. These are continuously deposited onto water uptake or particle size filtration. Fashion, a moving belt, and then bonded together by melting however, thinks about form on a macro scale—the small sections (bond points) over the entire area of shape of a neckline, the flutter of a hem. Here we see the textile. Remember those diamonds? They are the micro-scale highlighted in its execution of the the bond points securing the fibers in place, forming macro. A quick trip through the collection highlights them into a complete textile. Direct filament formation the unique visuals that can be accomplished with it. and the use of thermal bonding both create unique The thinness of the fabric allows for tight gathering, physical properties, which offer a hand feel and drape creating layers of small highly dimensional ruffles. very different than that of knits or wovens. The high stiffness is used to form an oval that enrobes the entire body, while still retaining a sheer visual. The thermal bonding of the fibers eliminated fraying and with it the need for finished edges.
The fine micro level construction of fabric can often be overlooked in more commonly used “apparel” textiles. This is a reductionist view due to over- familiarity; even the most basic of garments has nuances of fiber composition, yarn, construction and finish, creating a greater whole. The understanding of such material properties in both scientific and design attributes is a skill for every designer to master. How can greater success in conceptualization be fomented through materials?
46 47 10.2 Matter Fashion Week E Innovators Brand
ThinkLAB, a division of Material ConneXion, recently hosted some exciting talks at its Rather that relegating materials to be the servants headquarters in New York City. A special of an established design, which can often be like Valentine’s Day treat, ThinkLAB held the Brand attempting to fit together pieces from two different puzzles, truly great design integrates materiality into Innovators' annual Fashion Week event on the conceptualization stages; getting more from the February 14th, which provided an opportunity physical attributes of the material to manifest the for brand marketers from Fortune 500 and design with greater success, clarity and impact. In the case of Comme des Garçons, materials aid to execute other leading companies to learn, share and a concept on every level, bringing the vision to life on connect with each other. The talks took place in all scales—macro, micro and in-between. SANDOW’s Innovation Lab and guests got private
When it is time to move a design from page or screen tours of our new and improved Materials Library. into an actual product, a host of challenges can Among the speakers—which included marketing arise. Early integration of material and manufacturing leaders from L'Oréal, Lacoste, Baume & Mercier, understanding can not only prevent issues, but also elevate the design. It does this by bringing fresh Diesel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Gap and J.Crew— opportunities to designers, allowing for original was Dr. Andrew Dent, VP Materials & Library executions or fabrications that, in combination with Research. He discussed the role of ThinkLAB, design, can be something truly new. Material ConneXion and future material trends by Where we see the success of Rei Kawakubo’s line presenting numerous case studies such as the is the result of experimentation; moving past the Logitech FabricSkin Keyboard Folio, the UE Boom expected and integrating the unknown in every way. Using a nonwoven fabric further expanded and Nike Air Jordan XIX.
and executed her vision of non-fashion and made it vent possible for her to create non-apparel shapes and forms due to its own material structure. Materials Maider Irastorza bolster the vision of a design in both the physical execution and by providing an additional canvas from Director of Consulting
which a designer can express their point of view. [email protected]
48 /mcx bangkok
an interview with MCX Bangkok by Michele Caniato
Long Material ConneXion’s primary Asian outpost, MCX Bangkok features a growing library with thousands of innovative materials, most of them excellent examples of reuse and recycling. The Bangkok office, in conjunction with the Thailand Creative Design Center (TCDC), also opened a satellite location in Chiangmai, further underscoring their great success. Material ConneXion President Michele Caniato enjoyed catching up with our design-minded colleagues in the East.
Michele Caniato Material ConneXion Bangkok was the third library to open and now includes nearly 3,700 materials. How are innovative materials and their applications seen in Thailand?
MCX Bangkok Thai people love to see and learn more about innovative materials, and there has been much interest in exploring the library. However, it is still underused, due to the limited amount of available products in the marketplace. So we are working to promote this amazing resource to ensure it reaches as many potential industries as possible. We are passionate about materials and how they can better our nation.
Apisit Laistrooglai, Managing Director MCX Bangkok MC Which industry has taken the most advantage of innovative materials in their projects in Thailand?
MCXB Architecture most certainly, as it pertains directly to building construction, but we have also seen a lot of innovative material use in the packaging industry. We are hoping to push for a greater focus on new product development as well, since this is a great area for materials.
MC How do these industries use innovative materials?
MCXB As you are well familiar, innovative materials here go hand in hand with innovative processes. Together, they have had a remarkable impact on construction and production by helping to reduce time, save energy, lower overall cost and provide a fresh new look for all kinds of architectural and packaging projects.
MC Which industry do you feel should implement more innovative and advanced materials in their projects?
MCXB We would argue that there are two main areas that could benefit from better material choices: namely, building construction, which continues to rise quickly, [and] must take space, time and cost into consideration. Craftsmen could also increase their efficiency with a stronger foundation in innovative materials and processes.
MC A large number of materials that come out of Thailand fall into the naturals category. What are the most utilized resources for material development in your region?
MCX Bangkok Satellite Office in Changmoi 10.2 Matter 10.2 Matter
MCXB Research technology from research institutions and university projects, along with R&D from the private sector. Most of our natural resources come from agricultural waste, so it’s been a wonderful way to reduce, reuse and recycle.
MC How important is the sustainable component in Thailand when it comes to innovative materials?
MCXB It is very important, as we have lots of natural resources that are sustainable (and great assets). Therefore, we are constantly investigating innovative approaches toward creating materials that make the most of the materials [that] we already have, namely, natural resources, as well as waste products. Two such materials that we have come across are biocellulose sheets and hemp rubber tiles. "The MC amount You recently opened a Material ConneXion satellite of office in Chiangmai. How does this library service the designers of the area? materials [that] we MCXB have in the It is an eye-opening experience and a great library is truly opportunity for us to see innovative materials and be able to share them the way that we do. But there astonishing, is still a fair amount of work to do in helping other and, at times, industries take notice of what can be accomplished can almost be with cross-pollination and material insight. We have overwhelming worked to provide material workshops and seminars to designers and entrepreneurs, and also [worked to once you build a] network between these two groups. factor in the many, many characteristics they all possess."
54 55 MCX Bangkok brainstorming session 10.2 Matter
MC Are there any plans for TCDC and Material ConneXion to expand in Thailand this year?
MCXB We are working on finding a new location that we could hopefully move to within the next three years. This year, we are focusing on “Service Design.” Our staff has attended intensive workshops with organizations in core service industries, such as tourism agencies, Foldtex hotels and hospitals, to see where materials (MC 5301-01) and innovation can relate to service design. Laminated sheet material MC consisting What is your favorite material?
of both rigid MCXB and flexible Foldtex (MC# 5301-01)—a flexible, laminated layers. Two sheet that is a fantastic idea. I like it because layers of it is a simple combination of wood and fabric, from which we can create something by folding plywood it in any dimension or shape we want. The and flexible amount of materials [that] we have in the library materials are is truly astonishing, and, at times, can almost laminated be overwhelming once you factor in the many, many characteristics they all possess. The together, and simple ingenuity behind Foldtex is part of why then CNC- it is my favorite. milled to create a flexible and [email protected] tear-resistant hinge.
57 MCX New York 1271 Avenue of the Americas, 17th Floor MCX Bangkok A division of Thailand Creative & Design Center New York, NY 10020 A division of OKMD, Office of the Prime Minister Dr. Andrew H. Dent and Leslie Sherr The “Cooperation” exhibition by P + 1 212 842 2050 The Emporium Shopping Complex are the authors of Material ConneXion's Material ConneXion Bangkok is a pilot F + 1 212 842 1090 622 Sukhumvit 24, 6th Floor book series published with Thames & E [email protected] program with the goal of developing Bangkok 10110 Hudson. The first two volumes, Material W materialconnexion.com inter-professional relationships and P + 66 (0) 2 664 8448 Innovation: Architecture and Material collaborative efforts between Thai material Adam I. Sandow CEO F + 66 (0) 2 664 8459 Innovation: Product Design explore the role Michele Caniato President manufacturers and new designers. E [email protected] of materials in internationally acclaimed George M. Beylerian Founder W materialconnexion.com/th projects. Both books are available for Fiona Anastas Materials Specialist During the project’s nine-month duration, Caroline Berna Business Development, Library Access Satellite Office purchase at thamesandhudson.com Stephanie Best Executive Assistant to the Founder four pairs of participants explored the TCDC Chiang Mai for $29.95 each. Sarah D'Sylva Business Development potential and possibility of innovative 1/1 Muang Samut Road Andrew H. Dent, Ph.D. VP Library and Materials Research Thai materials. Already familiar with Changmoi Subdistrict, Muang District The third volume, Material Innovation: Christy Evans Executive Assistant to the President Chiang Mai 50300 ideation and manufacturing processes Packaging will be available in Spring 2015. Katarzyna Gora Membership Coordinator Carlo Grioli Sr. Graphic Designer and objective and differing views towards Chaiyong Ratana-Angkura President Terence Harris Facilities Manager consumption, these creative pairs came Apisit Laistrooglai Managing Director Sarah Hoit Materials Specialist Chompoonuj Weerakitti Dir. Library & Materials Research up with new products that satisfy multiple Maider Irastorza Director of Consulting Dararat Mekkriengkrai, Ph.D. Materials Researcher Anuja Joshi Design Strategist demands, from production and function to Jintana Choopromwong Library Assistant Matthew Kalishman Director of Finance and Operations commercial requirements. Jessica Kleiman EVP Communications Michael LaGreca VP Library Access Alejandra López Kluger Library Manager Jacklyn Pan Manufacturer Relations Manager Elizabeth Peterson Materials Archivist Allie Redpath Business Development Daniel Swartz Editorial Project Manager Jim Toomey Business Manager Alexis Trésor International Licensing Manager Gabriella Vivaldi Sr. Marketing & Communications Manager Adrienne Wheatley Director of Design Management 58 59 MCX Cologne A division of SURVEY Marketing + Consulting MCX Korea Material ConneXion® Daegu GmbH & Co. KG 701-824 3F Daegu Gyeongbuk Design Center MCX Cologne was excited for the Light The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) 107-4 Shincheon 3-dong + Building show in Frankfurt, which was Lichtstrasse 43 G and Park opened March 21, 2014, Dong-gu Daegu 50825 Cologne held from March 30 – April 4. Since the showcasing modern design works and T + 82 53 740 0048 last Light + Building in 2012, technology P + 49 (0) 221 99 22 28 0 a rare collection of traditional Korean F + 82 53 720 2530 in the field has evolved significantly. F + 49 (0) 221 99 22 28 11 art. To celebrate the opening, DDP E [email protected] E [email protected] Thanks to better system efficiency, light held five design and art exhibitions W materialconnexion.kr W materialconnexion.com/de has become an essential part of smart featuring works by high-profile modern Yong-Bin Jung President grid-based building technology. With designers, including the architect of Chang Su Lee PR & Communications Coordinator over 2,300 visitors and 240,000 square the building, Zaha Hadid, as well as a Bo kyung Kim Materials Archivist & Account Manager meters of exhibit space, visitors came prized collection of traditional Korean Kang won Lim Marketing & Communications Manager from over 50 countries to experience art from the Kansong Art Museum. The Jee Hoon Jang Managing Director & Director of Library & Materials Research first-hand countless innovations in four plaza and park are a combination of rich official product fields: lighting, electro- historical heritage and state-of-the-art Material ConneXion® Seoul technology, building automation and cultural facilities. 3F, Seoul Design Support Center 70, Jongro 6ga software for the construction industry. Jongro-gu, Seoul
E [email protected] W materialconnexion.kr
60 61 Photography by: Karsten Bleymehl
MCX Istanbul Yapi-Endustri Merkezi | The Building Information Center MCX Italia Showroom: La Triennale Di Milano Viale Alemagna, 6 Further reinforcing Istanbul as one of Fulya Mah. Yesilçimen Sok. For the Salone del Mobile in Milan and 20123, Milano
the textile capitals of the world, No: 12/430 Triennale Design Week, Fulya, Istanbul T + 39 02 72 43 42 55 Material ConneXion Istanbul is excited Material ConneXion Italia created and F + 39 02 39 32 12 39 for the 20th annual EVTEKS Home T + 90 212 266 70 70 promoted Materials Village, a platform E [email protected] F + 90 212 266 70 10 W triennale.it Textile Show. Located at the Istanbul of events and happenings dedicated E [email protected] Expo Center, which boasts 160,000 to promoting the culture of materials Library and Office W materialconnexion.com/tr Viale Sarca 336/F ed. 16 square meters (over 1.7 million square and manufacturing processes, which 20126, Milano feet), the show will host over 1,000 Barısş Onay CEO took place April 8-13, 2014. This special exhibitors between May 21st and Paolo Cancellato VP Operations project consisted of a series of nine T + 39 02 36 55 3060/3169 May 25th. Burak Haydaroglu Marketing & Sales Group Director houses of various dimensions and F + 39 02 36 55 3238 Basak Bilgin Business & Marketing Specialist E [email protected] configurations strategically placed in the Sennur Ural Sales & Marketing Specialist W materialconnexion.com/it Mehmet Burak Haskan Material Specialist & Consultant gardens of the Triennale Museum, where Pelin Numan Innovation Expert the library has a permanent showroom. Rodrigo Rodriquez Chairman Emilio Genovesi CEO The nine units hosted 30 companies and Micol Costi Director of Library & Materials Research the designs of nine important architects, Anna Pellizzari Executive Director showcasing their state-of-the-art Claudia Reder Material Researcher products using innovative materials Federica Pastonesi Special Projects Giulio Marzi Account Executive and processes. Giuliana Saita Senior Accountant Cristina Bacchi Accountant Christian Tubito Project Manager Maria Giovanna Sicignano Events and Exhibitions
62 63 MCX Copenhagen KEA, Copenhagen School of Design and Technology MCX Skövde Kanikegränd 3B Guldbergsade 29N 541 34 Skövde MCX is pleased to announce the 2200 Copenhagen MCX friend Färg & Blanche showcased T + 46 (0) 500 50 25 00 opening of a new satellite location at the designs made using their unique, F + 66 (0) 2 664 8459 T + 45 4646 0252 E [email protected] KEA Copenhagen School of Design and E [email protected] proprietary wood tailoring technique
Technology, which will house its very where they sew straight through Anders Breitholtz Managing Director own materials library. Unlike many of Mette Bak-Andersen Curator of MCX plywood. They went on to display the Louise Friestedt Materials Researcher Material ConneXion’s university libraries, Pernille Berg Research and Innovation Center Wood Layer armchair from the WOOD Carolina Green Office Manager the KEA location will not only allow TAILORING collection in an exhibition Magdalena Svedlund Office Manager Johan Svensson Product Development & Material Consulting enrolled students to explore the library called "The Scale of Things" at La Sonja Rundgren Marketing Manager and material samples, it will also Pelota during the Salone Internazionale provide companies seeking consulting del Mobile in Milan 10 (Brera) with 5 services with the materials knowledge other Swedish designers: Matti Klenell, necessary in today’s increasingly Folkform, Jens Fager, Jonas Wagell and competitive markets. Lukas Dalhén.
64 65 MCX Tokyo Material ConneXion® Tokyo 4F METLIFE Aoyama Bldg. 2-11-16 Tokyo’s design cachet has once again Minamiaoyama Minato-ku superceded itself—no easy feat. Famed Tokyo, 107-0062
Japanese architect, Shigeru Ban, was T +81 3 6721 1780 the recipient of this year’s Pritzker F +81 3 3470 1201 Architecture Prize. Most notable for his E [email protected] disaster relief homes primarily built of W materialconnexion.jp
recycled cardboard tubes, Ban’s work is Miyuki Tamai Chief Exective Officer also featured in Material ConneXion and Kumiko Yoshikawa Chief Operating Officer Thames & Hudson’s new book, Junya Suzuki Member of the Board Material Innovation: Architecture. Wataru Watanabe Member of the Board Keisuke Kato Creative Director Ai Kikuchi Designer
66 th 1271 Avenue of the Americas, 17 Floor PresortED New York, NY 10020 STD. US Postage PAID WHT RIV JCT, VT
Hours of Operation Public Transit Routes Monday - Friday 9am – 6pm • Express or Local B,D,F,M subway train to 47-50 Sts – Rockefeller Ctr Please Note • Broadway Express or Local N, Q, R Access to the Library is available subway train to 49th St by appointment only* • Broadway-7th Ave Local 1 subway Business card required for an on-site visit Schedule appointments at least 48 hours in train to 50th St. advance. • M7 or M2 Buses Closed Federal Holidays For further information, membership *unscheduled appointments may be or a presentation customized to meet your accommodated at the discretion of needs, please call +1 212 842 2050 Material ConneXion staff or email at [email protected] materialconnexion.com