richard yasmine references metal nails in clou coffee table

richard yasmine is an architect and product designer based in beirut that believes design should be simple, bold, and straightforward with a touch of fantasy, while incorporating a fresh approach that nonetheless sticks to culture and traditional aspects. ‘clou’ is a coffee/side table that references a nail, hence its french name and will be presented at maison et object fall 2016. these extended metallic pieces are used to connect two objects to each other. they consist of a flat end, sometimes enlarged, called a header, and a body usually ending with a pointed shape.

all images by bizarrebeirut

the concept of ‘clou’ generated by richard yasmine is to enlarge this small object and transform it into a table. the series is made of different materials and its composed of a flat surface—or header—which is the table top and a pointed ending pyramid which creates the bottom. the edition showcased here consists of a full body made of pentelic (greek) marble and another made of a treated iron metal, each forming the shape of an exaggerated flat header and body. they are connected to a pedestal of the same material and can be mix-and-match depending on the color combination the user wishes to obtain. the piece can also be used as an ornamental sculptural huge nail if laying on the floor.

full circle

the visual result reflects a double symbolism: sadism and alliance, in a dramatic but aesthetic appearance, together creating one body. when the nail is enforced to penetrate the base, part of its body is buried in this second element or material. once done, the two elements are now attached and regardless of the pain, they become one.

metal laying on metal

holding the block

on set 

white marble nail

use and abuse

back lines and curves 

close up detail

rough texture 

blackout outline

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.