The Gentleman Magazine Issue 9 | June 2018 | Page 69

Examples of L-finesse design include the custom-made central bar units . Finished with a matt white marble surface with concealed lighting and gloss white body section , they are styled with an intriguing mixture of rounded corners and sharp angles . The lounge tables are similar in look , with white glass tops and anodised aluminium bases . Services and cabling are all concealed from view to preserve a pure silhouette .
Signature grille facade
The façade of LOUNGE by Lexus features a subtle yet striking interpretation of the spindle grille that has become a signature design feature of Lexus vehicles . It is rendered in a richly coloured perforated bamboo that is also used in the interiors of Lexus models .
The spindle grille has been a feature of Lexus models since first appearing on the GS saloon in 2012 . Its shape has been interpreted to reflect the character of different models , from strong SUVs and crossovers , such as the RX and NX to performance coupes such as the LC and RC F and luxury saloons , like the IS and LS . The upper and lower sections can be changed in size and made more prominent , adjusting the central pinch-point , and the mesh can be formed in different patterns , creating new visual tensions . The choice of materials and colours for the frame and mesh also generates a different look to suit the vehicle ’ s specific character .
The grille is a concrete example of how Lexus design has evolved from focusing on elegance to becoming sharper , edgier and more distinctive , with details that are instantly recognisable as “ Lexus ”.
Take a Line for a Walk chairs by Alfredo Häberli
The furnishings in LOUNGE by Lexus have been chosen for their combination of comfort and design excellence . One of the key pieces is the Take a Line for a Walk chair , designed by Alfredo Häberli and manufactured by luxury Italian furniture maker Moroso . The chair takes its name and inspiration from a quote from the 20th century artist Paul Klee : “ Drawing is like taking a line for a walk .”
The Swiss-Argentinian designer Häberli explained : “ The modelling method of rapid prototyping served as the starting point for this design . At the time , I was reading a book about Paul Klee in which he said that when he was drawing , it was like taking the line for a walk . This expression gave me the final theme : to design a lightweight structure for a lounge chair with enormous wings .”
The Takumi and Design cabinet includes design drawings , items from the Lexus Design Awards and even an origami cat – the folding challenge Lexus ’ s craftsmen have to master , working against the clock and using their non-dominant hand . Further context is provided by a selection of books on art , lifestyle and travel .
The Technology and Performance cabinet illustrates diverse Lexus projects such as the LFA supercar , Hoverboard , Sport Yacht concept and the Skyjet , designed for the sci-fi movie Valerian and the City of 1,000 Planets , plus the company ’ s international racing activities . Again , there is a range of books to browse on technology , sports , space exploration and related subjects .
The Lexus Parts Wall
The Parts Wall is a striking feature created entirely from parts used in Lexus vehicles , brought together in an artistic arrangement and finished in a uniform white .
The idea for the wall was originally brought to life at the INTERSECT by Lexus luxury brand space in Tokyo by Masamichi Katayama , principal of the interior design company Wonderwall Inc .
Katayama explained : “ I wanted to transform the simple act of relaxing in a lounge into a chance to experience the excitement of the Lexus brand .”
The installation comprises dozens individual parts and components – among them bodywork , grilles , exhaust systems and wheels – together weighing more than a tonne . Their arrangement in a single installation creates a fusion of art and engineering that pays tribute to the craftsmanship and advanced technologies applied to Lexus vehicles .
Innovation , inspiration and ingenuity from the Lexus Design Awards
Lexus believes design has the power to make the world a better place , and LOUNGE by Lexus provides a showcase for some of the most innovative and effective entries contributed to the annual Lexus Design Award , an international initiative to encourage and support emerging global design talent .
Take a Line for a Walk is a modern , extremely comfortable bergère-style chair with a slim and masculine shape . The armchair and footrest are in cold-foamed polyurethane with inner steel frame . The base is coated steel and the foot pads are made of PVC .
Lexus storytelling cabinets
As part of the Lexus Lounge brand experience , two storytelling cabinets bring together items , pictures and books that draw on different aspects of Lexus , from high technology to motorsports success .
There are two open cabinets , located in the upper lounge , themed on Design and Takumi Craftsmanship and Technology and Performance .
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