Whether folded or curved, Paul Coenen's metal furniture demonstrates that functionality can also be synonymous with simplicity. This young designer, fresh out of the Design Academy Eindhoven, is a true innovator in the field. A profile.
An explicit design
During his final year project, "Borders of Assembly," the designer explored a new way of shaping metal. This experience then gave rise to the series. Tension where each piece of furniture that composes it seems as light and malleable as a sheet of paper. As if by magic, thin aluminum plates pass through curved structures, without the need for any welding. A process inspired by the manufacturing industry. Its lamp Arc and his stool Camber, similar to origami, embody the same principle.
Subtle lightness
Paul Coenen cannot bring his creations to fruition without first making a paper model. Because, according to him, this medium is as flexible as sheet metal. He adds: “I see my work as a system. When I design a new table, I already envision a collection of furniture based on the same principle.” With a simple gesture, Coenen handles the metal with a master's hand, just as the American artist Richard Serra did with his grandiose sculptures.
In the future, Paul plans to work with different techniques and materials, which may lead to some unusual new design pieces. He has already created a new collection of home furnishings with the Dutch brand Róhe. To be continued…
The entire Tension collection is available exclusively at the Scene Ouverte Gallery in Paris.
https://galerie-sceneouverte.com/
Netherlands – Eindhoven