domhnall nolan creates modular sex furniture for an inclusive queer playroom

refocusing sexual associations with materiality, scale, & color

Commissioned by London queer kink night, Joyride, ‘PLAY PIECES’ is a series of modular sex furniture pieces by Domhnall Nolan for an inclusive queer playroom. The handmade collection consists of multiple leather seating modules, a long spanking bench, and a cage wall with multiple attachments. Inspired by both vintage gym equipment and the sexual culture of the 1970s, the pieces together evoke an explorative sense of enjoyment and utilitarianism — intended to intrigue and arouse. ‘I wanted to create pieces to make people feel sexual and to react to that in their own way. They’re non-prescriptive pieces that you can use whatever way you desire,’ notes Nolan.

domhnall nolan rethinks kink furniture

For his recent project, the Irish-born designer takes on an approach that rethinks our collective ideas of kink furniture and creates something that marries the worlds of design, sex, and aesthetics. Adding a sense refinement to the reputation of the traditional ‘darkroom’ in sex and kink clubs, Domhnall Nolan imagined the ‘PLAY PIECES’ collection as ‘having the joy of a sweaty disco, but the sensuality and darkness of a techno rave.’ Further, the pieces adopt a non-gendered approach attempting to refocus sexual associations with materiality, scale, and color.

‘the joy of a sweaty disco, but the sensuality of a techno rave’

Domhnall Nolan completes the modular sex furniture pieces with adaptability for an inclusive queer playroom. PLAY PIECE_01, a multifunctional folding bed, chair, loveseat, and saddle, draws on the shape and form of a Japanese futon. Its adaptable metal leg frame can be used to elevate the seat when required, hooking on with swivel hooks and chains. The modules can be easily combined, placed back to back, or stacked on top of one another, giving endless mounting position possibilities for the users to experiment.

PLAY PIECE_02 is an adjustable spanking bench inspired by traditional ‘Conversation Piece’ furniture, aesthetically juxtaposing the harness of a guillotine with the domesticity of a dining room table. The metalwork is honest and robust, with obvious fixing points, handles, and connections. This is complimented with the stealthy cognac leatherette upholstery — all of which was made by hand in London.

project info:

name: PLAY PIECES
designer: Domhnall Nolan

models: Sam Purnell & Domhnall Nolan

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.