Elliot Bastianon

black and [blue] (2015)

There is a noticeable trend to design universal brackets and multifunctional fasteners. These joining mechanisms are a common sight in furniture applications, and while not denying their relevance and practicality, one can’t help but wonder that the preoccupation of people to simplify the construction of things will ultimately result in a predictable landscape of furniture devoid of individuality and singularity.

black and [blue], in deviance and in jest, illogically incorporates a pastel steel bracket as a leg support for a small writing desk. In doing so, this joining mechanism is stripped of its importance as something that provides structure and is there only to prevent the table from wobbling. Any number of things could do this: a folded napkin would do the same job. Yet its presence to perform such a mundane task hints that the presence of steel brackets in contemporary furniture has become something other than inspiring.

black and [blue] isn’t meant to be a criticism of the way things are or what others have done, but more of a ‘letter to the editor’ that voices an opinion, albeit in a playful way.

Materials: Pin Oak (japanned), steel, stainless steel

One-off production.

When one sees wood and metal in furniture applications, we’re accustomed to seeing the timber as the primary surface, with the metal often acting as the underframe. The timber is celebrated, while the metal is supportive.

Comprised of a stripped back underframe and unprocessed bedhead, this is an honest construction made up of elemental parts. The frame is straightforward: a series of rails that interlock with two beams standing edgewise to create a simple structure where no glue or mechanical fasteners are required.

The underframe revives and renovates timber that had a previous life in local buildings; the bedhead—a cross section from a Red Gum tree—is a grand, organic feature that adds warmth to the space.

Materials: Spotted Gum, Red Gum