out for space debuts karuun technology in kc collection

out for space debuts karuun technology in kc collection
all images courtesy of out for space

rattan is a subspecies of palm found almost exclusively in tropic areas of africa, asia and latin america. traditionally used for furniture and wicker-based products locally, many parts of europe are simply unaware of the material and its highly useful physical qualities. during a series of trips to indonesia, small german studio out for space, became aware of the neglected rattan and soon developed a vision for its future.

‘kc’ features five products, all of which focus on the unique properties of karuun 

the ‘kc collection’ is the fruit of their efforts, which was created using ‘karuun’, the studio’s recently patented material. the structure of rattan is unique, like a series of long tubes that run from the roots all the way along the trunk. it’s highly porous, and for the most part unable to support itself — especially when it reaches lengths upwards of 160 meters! out for space’s technology takes advantage of its natural properties, which involves injecting the capillaries with various bulking agents.

the collection’s design is characterized by a clear and reduced language of form

with added strength, flexibility, water-resistance, and various color possibilities the once limited material, is now practical for nearly countless situations. the technology was created in collaboration with the innovation center lichtenfels and the university of applie sciences coburg. the collection features a total of five products, which center around the use of ‘karuun’. the line is characterized by a concise, reductive aesthetic that clearly distinguishes it from the past and towards the future of rattan in design. 

rattan is very elastic when wet and even more so when exposed to heat or steam

‘kc play’ shows the unusual use of rattan as wooden boards 

the translucency lent to rattan by its porosity

the kc collection is easily distinguishable from traditional rattan products 

debuting the use of ‘karuun color’

the wood of the rattan palm is unique in its internal structure 

the material grows very quickly and has significant advantages over other types of wood 

certain species of rattan grow to a diameter of 100 millimeters and can reach a total length of 160 meters 

patented technology 

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