das brett by kaspar hamacher wins the henry van de velde public award 2010

‘das brett’ by kaspar hamacher images courtesy of kaspar hamacher

brussels-based designer kaspar hamacher has been awarded the henry van de velde public award 2010 for his book shelf entitled ‘das brett’. made from solid oak, the shelf features a concave top that opposes the flat underside, giving it a particular aesthetic tension. each book supports the next as they tilt in towards the center of the contoured surface. acting as both a joist and a support, the bookshelf represents the intersection of form and object, art and function.

detail of edge

designer kaspar hamacher states,‘… I want to bring meaning to my work in an artistic manner, without losing sight of functionality, both with respect to the form and use of the object. nature is my source of inspiration. I believe in pure and honest objects with well balanced forms.there is a clearly perceptible difference between the purely natural and the technological product. some things, such as the warmth of the wood, the smell and feel of leather, the individual elements and so on are impossible to reproduce.’

designboom originally published this bookshelf in an article showcasing a range of pieces designed by hamacher.

concept sketch

designer kaspar hamacher sanding the shelf

construction