alexander lorenz designs kivo furniture system for herman miller

alexander lorenz designs kivo furniture system for herman miller
all images courtesy of herman miller

‘kivo,’ designed exclusively for herman miller by alexander lorenz, takes on the challenges faced by the consistently changing landscape of the contemporary office. the furniture system was formed to provide a solution to the dynamic workplace while also offering flexibility for changes in activity and behavior. the construct features a series of lightweight triangular modules that come together in a geometric mosaic with the ability to divide existing areas, emphasizing places to collaborate. in order to provide multiple spatial opportunities, the frame is composed of delicate, polished steel that encloses felt tiles, which add a tactile element to the structure. the uneven, external profile supports the intuitive nature in which people operate, outlining spaces with acoustic dampening materials where people can be creative or find a quiet space of privacy to escape and think.

felt is used to add a tactile element to the design

alexander lorenz commented, ‘designing kivo was a truly exciting enterprise, creating the mathematical algorithm to map the possibilities of it took almost as long as choosing materials and developing components, but it was crucial to the design. its strength and efficient use of material comes from its geodesic structure which was pioneered by american architect buckminster fuller and has revolutionized architecture.’

the light, steel polished framework is easily to adjust

partitions create private spaces for individuals

the slight turning of the panels allows each triangle to capture light differently

small enclaves can be created

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.