TAF Arkitektkontor launches the neat Bleck sofa and easy chair

TAF Arkitektkontor launches the neat Bleck sofa and easy chair. Just as attractive from the back as the front, it is easy to place and remarkably soft and lovely.

What inspired the design of the Bleck sofa and easy chair?

For a long time, the working name was Construction Sofa because of our interest in exposed constructions. Inspiration came mostly from the reverse sides of oil paintings, which reveal the canvas stretcher construction. We started by studying a variety of frames and fell for the triangular braces used to reinforce the corners. Since we also use such a brace for functionality and decor, and this is where the collection’s name comes from in Swedish, we have worked deliberately to make the sofa and easy chair just as attractive from the back as the front.

What inspired the design of the Bleck sofa and easy chair?

For a long time, the working name was Construction Sofa because of our interest in exposed constructions. Inspiration came mostly from the reverse sides of oil paintings, which reveal the canvas stretcher construction. We started by studying a variety of frames and fell for the triangular braces used to reinforce the corners. Since we also use such a brace for functionality and decor, and this is where the collection’s name comes from in Swedish, we have worked deliberately to make the sofa and easy chair just as attractive from the back as the front.

 

What are the positive effects of highlighting the back of a piece of furniture?

Designing and exposing the back influences more than you might think. It creates greater freedom regarding the manner in which you furnish a space. Suddenly you have options in where to place the sofa; the back doesn’t have to be against a wall. It also gives a more cultivated feeling, looks more attentive and creates spatiality. Concerning the easy chairs, it is even more important that they can be positioned independently as solitary pieces.

 

What materials does Bleck use?

The frame and all the visible wooden components are in beech. The fluffy cushions are filled with down and foam. Down gives a softer and more inviting character than usual in public settings.

 

What environments are the Bleck sofa and easy chair meant for?

The boundaries between home and public environments are dissolving. For example, Bleck is a design that works in both. Sofas are usually large and command the space; we have deliberately kept all the dimensions modest and offer a neat and simple sofa. One advantage is that even though the Bleck sofa and easy chair are deliberately low, their appeal still comes through from its character, creating a spatial feeling.

 

You are two architects who work together. What’s that process like? 

It is very much based on discussion. Either we start from a point of interest or a problem that needs solving. At an early stage, we try to find a common thread or a concept to relate to. Thus we create a framework to work within, in which anything is possible.

Product Description: Bleck

Three-seat sofa, with frame of solid beech, cushions filled with seabird down and foam, in fabric or leather.

Easy chair, with frame of solid beech, cushions filled with seabird down and foam, in fabric or leather.

 

Test sit Bleck at the Gärsnäs stand A11:20, Stockholm Furniture Fair 7 – 11 February.