matali crasset: wigwam for tarkett

‘wigwam’ by matali crasset for tarkett

french designer matali crasset has created a structure which from the exterior seems to be derived from a primitive dwelling, particularly that of the amerindian wigwam, a dome-shaped structure with a bent pole frame, typically covered in birch bark or skins. developed as a means of showcasing the products of french flooring company tarkett, crasset’s ‘wigwam’ is constructed to look as if it is made from wooden floor panels that have been unhooked and placed informally around the framework. on the interior, you are surrounded by the reverse side of the bark. at the centre of the inner space there are vertical staves running from floor to ceiling, arranged in a circle, outfitted with many small wooden hooks and have been included to act as a place of secret ritual, whereby you are invited to take a small piece of bark and carve your initials in it, perhaps also that of your lover, away from prying eyes. the tarkett references used for this project were lattes tarkett starfloor: smoked oak ntural, smoked oak light grey. ‘wigwam’ is currently on display at the tarkett showroom – aubervilliers.

‘my relationship with tarkett flooring is based on color. I use their flooring for various purposes as recently in the ‘le blobterre de matali’ exhibit at the pompidou centre. the range of colors is amazing. I especially appreciate near-fluourescent tones of vibrant green prairie. the floor becomes a real architectural element that I want to use to suit me.’ – matali crasset

full view

interior view

staves at the centre of the interior are outfitted with many small wooden hooks and have been included to act as a place of secret ritual