studio pedrazzi's 'bent' collection alternates layers of form + function

the ‘bent’ collection from brazil based studio pedrazzi is a range of single-form, stainless steel furniture that combines an exploration of contrasting textiles with negative space. the studio’s methodology centers around making functional objects from raw materials whose use has been abstracted, stretched and reimagined in new and interesting ways.

the studio’s methodology centers around making objects from raw materials whose traditional use has been abstracted

studio pedrazzi have approached the ‘bent’ series as a research project about the plasticity, resistance and precision of stainless steel intertwined with the warmth and tactile nature of handmade tapestry. to create the frames of the collection — which are comprised of a chair and three small stools — sheets of stainless steel are laser cut, bent to form, and then sealed using TIG welding. the surface is then completed with a smooth, hand-brushed finish. upon completion, the steel forms are encased in their textile covers, a tapestry that is handmade using traditional looms and decorated with minimal graphic patterning. ‘the vast repertoire [of materials] available on the planet, leads us to search all the types of material and technological possibilities,’ says the studio in their mission statement. ‘each raw material draws in a different way and results in a new series with different characteristics.’

the studio approached the ‘bent’ series as a research project about the plasticity and precision of stainless steel

the result is a collection of furniture that quizzes the relationship between form and function by combining materials rarely considered comfortable and those often thought of as such. the fluid, uninterrupted lines of the stainless steel forms support a curious bond with the soft, homey fabric on its surface. the empty core of the pieces becomes a third, tangible element in the creation of the overall aesthetic, and generates an interesting narrative between the three consecutive levels of the pieces.

the result is a collection of furniture that quizzes the relationship between form and function

the tapestry is decorated with minimal graphics

the three, contrasting materials create an interesting narrative 

the designer also suggests stacking the stools like a shelf 

the steel is laser cut, bent to form and then sealed using TIG welding

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: peter corboy | designboom