konstantin grcic designed wooden parasol ‘paladin’ with a mini skylight for kettal

From designer Konstantin Grcic

When one asks how designer Konstantin Grcic defines ‘function’, they may query what he means by ‘in human terms’ or the way he forms it as ‘combining formal strictness with considerable mental acuity and humor.’ But rifling through his literature, the clarification dawns on the depth of knowledge he owns, the characterization of his research in the history of art, design, and architecture that charge his passion for technology and materials. Structural and scientific, logical and by reason. The foundations of his beliefs in his craft-making process have paved the way for the creation of Paladin, a wooden parasol for domestic and public use, the recent offering of the designer to his audience, and a new collaborative design of an umbrella with Kettal in the midst of Milan Design Week 2022 (read our must-visit shows here).

images from Kettal

Paladin from Kettal

Bathed in a white palette and textile, the giant umbrella appears to float on top of the mast and plays with the tension brought by the elastic thread from the canopy, the principle of Grcic that employs mechanism and structural logic in the design. As the description of the parasol follows, the textile absorbs the tensile forces of the parasol when unfolded through the mast and four movable struts, and the mast goes right through the center of the canopy, leaving a central hole that acts as a skylight and passage for air circulation. Wooden and robust elements perforate the design elements with its natural teak and reinforced core in aluminum. The mechanical joints and fasteners in aluminum and stainless steel minimize the vibrancy in the look’s tone and rather zeroes in on the purpose of Paladin.

wooden parasol ‘paladin’ designed with a mini skylight on top

Slow living

Savoring the tropical climate or sunny weather may take a toll on one’s health from prolonged exposure to sunlight, and the entrance of Paladin sweeps its guests into its nook, sheltering them from the blistering heat while still letting them enjoy the warmth. Other than its purpose to shield the guests from the rays, Paladin’s design invokes the serene ambiance of nature and the trend of minimalistic design that carpets social media feeds. Having it in one’s home for special occasions or everyday life can adorn any space it nestles in the feeling of slow living.

inside view