The Art of Design Issue 43 2020 | Page 22

22 things that were either not beautiful or not functional. His empire is now built on the premise that both are not just possible, but the certainty that they are essential characteristics for timeless design. This understanding of buildability is coupled with a heritage of Dutch functionalism: his studio is near the Zaanstreek, a region known for its innovative spirit and ‘get the job done’ mentality, once the historic motor that drove the success of the epic Dutch Golden Age. As the range of projects and pieces grow I’m reminded of the Dutch ability to go out and conquer the world... Their ability to create a whole universe within their projects is down to the make- up of the practice, itself anchored in their construction roots. Studio Piet Boon is a ‘total design concept firm’ combining architecture, interior design and product design on an international canvas. Their work is both macro and micro: boasting an impressive international portfolio of private homes, local and international developments as well as the expanding product collection that they manufacture in Holland and Italy. Their collaborations - whether with a Chinese property developer in New York, or a tableware brand in Belgium- reflect an innate curiosity about culture, architecture and the process of making. I enjoy charting their flow from interior design to product design – how questions of living from one part of the Piet Boon world emerge as answers in another. Jane, a a new new dining chair, was named after two Michelin-star restaurant The Jane in Antwerp restaurant that saw its nascence during the Studio’s refit of its award- winning interior. Its cylindrical shape, fluid lining and overlapping elements give Jane its accessible and distinct character. Its sociable shape also invites multidirectional seating, making it easy to combine with other pieces of furniture. Top: JANE swivel chair and KAI side table Bottom: Serax tableware and cutlery