Gear draws its inspiration from the 1950s architectural movement of Brutalism, characterized by its geometric forms and raw concrete surfaces. The series reimagines brutalist architecture into furniture but aims to soften its otherwise perceived harsh expression. For instance, grooves in the table legs create shadow effects depending on the lighting that falls upon them, adding a dynamic element.
Gear is made of raw concrete as the primary material, just like brutalist buildings were decades ago. However, to soften the harsh expression of the material, the concrete has been colored to add nuances and infuse tactility into the design. The Gear table is crafted by hand through a 9-step manufacturing process, showcasing the precision of skilled craftsmanship. In the final stages, each table is hand-painted, rendering it a unique piece where the expression varies.
The colors, including Chalk and Earth, present a chalky white and a coffee-colored shade, giving the concrete a warm reddish hue. These warmer nuances temper the expression, making it easier to combine with softer materials like wood and upholstery.
