CTRLZAK traces earth’s stratification in mediterranean-inspired series for urbi et orbi

CTRLZAK presents strata series for medius terra by urbi et orbi

Established in Athens in 2012, Urbi et Orbi has spent a decade showcasing the multifaceted potential of concrete as a premier material for design products by collaborating with makers to curate series across bathrooms and living spaces. On the occasion of Milan Design Week 2024, the brand presents the Medius Terra exhibition as an ode to the Mediterranean Genius Loci. The show recreates the region’s essence through three distinct chapters: Gea, Zoe, and Forma. Hybrid studio CTRLZAK takes part in the Gea chapter with its Strata Series, working alongside Saint of Athens as creative director during the product shoot to celebrate the earth’s incredible stratification process. 

celebrating the Mediterranean land and hues

CTRLZAK integrates diverse disciplines and forms of expression. Founded by artists and designers Katia Meneghini and Thanos Zakopoulos, the studio’s creations are based on extensive research into humanity’s cultural history and the natural world surrounding us to create a meaningful future. Bringing their vision to Medius Terra, CTRLZAK collaborates with Urbi et Orbi to showcase its Strata Series under Gea, which spotlights the Mediterranean’s earthy hues and organic textures. Gea pays homage to the land itself, from rugged coastlines to sun-drenched olive groves, inviting a sense of grounding and connection to nature. Highlighting the unique and earthy palette of the area, terracotta has a robust presence here, while each object is a testimony of passing time. 

the process of stratification at milan design week 2024

Under the creative direction of Saint of Athens, CTRLZAK illustrates its collection as inspired by the earth’s stratification, defined as the overlapping of various mineral compositions, where the upper layers are younger than the ones under them, showing the passing of time in stacks of deposits. The Mediterranean basin is home to many diverse geological phenomena, with a rich story of sedimentation, erosion, and strong volcanic activity, all of which contribute to a unique stratified environment. ‘This concept makes us reflect on our conception of time through the geological spectrum in the Mediterranean and our planet as a whole,‘ writes the hybrid studio. The Strata Series for Medius Terra will be showcased during Milan Design Week 2024 as part of Fuorisalone‘s Design Variations, set at a new location in a garage overlooking the Darsena. 

project info:

name: Strata Series

designer: CTRLZAK | @ctrlzak

product brand: Urbi et Orbi | @urbietorbi.gr

creative director: Saint of Athens | @saintofathens

photographer: Giagkos Papadopoulos | @giagkos_p

exhibition: Medius Terra 

program: Fuorisalone – Design Variations 2024