ma yansong serves up three meat-shaped rugs for labradors

ma yansong serves up three meat-shaped rugs for labradors
photo by hiroshi yoda

from now until oct. 11th, 2015, the exhibition ‘architecture for dogs‘ — first presented at design miami/ 2012 — is on display at shanghai himalayas museum. curated by kenya hara, the showcase includes previously presented canine habitats and shelters by a selection of thirteen internationally acclaimed designers and architects, from konstantin grcic to kengo kuma. in addition to these works, the exhibit in shanghai includes the project of chinese architect ma yansong, revealed for the first time for this occasion.

for the exhibition, ma yansong has realized a series of three small rugs intended for labrador retrievers. known to be excellent family companions, the athletic breed pursue an active lifestyle in hunting game. ma yansong considers a treat regarded as ultimate reward for the loyal labrador: a hefty cut of ‘niku’ — japanese for ‘meat.’ the ‘niku rug’ a meat-shaped woolen dog pad that mimics the natural marbling textures found in meat though a simple palette of three colors. three distinct pattern sizes and shapes allows the ‘niku rug’ to grow with the dog from puppy to adult and, unlike traditional dog habitats, the carpets can easily move around the home to further cement the bond between pet and family.  

the design is based of a treat considered to be the ultimate reward for the loyal labrador
photo by hiroshi yoda

three distinct pattern sizes and shapes allows the ‘niku rug’ to grow with the dog from puppy to adult
photo by hiroshi yoda

‘niku’ rug A / photo by hiroshi yoda

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‘niku’ rug B / photo by hiroshi yoda

‘niku’ rug C / photo by hiroshi yoda 

photo by hiroshi yoda

exhibition view at the shanghai himalayas museum
photo by ding yifei / courtesy shanghai himalayas museum