What was the inspiration for your product? How did the idea emerge?

We had to develop a bar for an interior project. Here, surfaces and structures are crucial for the interior design. We started by experimenting with surface treatments. For OSIS, we were inspired by a salt technique that actually comes from textile design. There, salt is used in a range of grain sizes to produce flowing patterns in a natural way. We transferred the principle to wood and arrived at some extraordinary results. Using various application techniques, we are gradually developing our collection.

How would you describe your style? In which areas of design are you rooted?

We see ourselves as inventors. A process, a material or an object can give us the impetus to develop something. If we are interested in a technique, we really go in-depth, and also carry over methods from other areas. For us, design is not a surface given form, but moves in the areas of craft, art and technology.

What do you associate with the »Berliner Zimmer«?

MATT von llot llov is essentially a tribute to the »Berliner Zimmer«. Because the space is relatively large and is in a corner of the building, these rooms are really quite dark. The electric ceiling outlet is usually located in the centre of the room and inevitably has to be rerouted. The MATT luminaire has a 12-metre cable. The idea is for this light to be carried around in space, to be used in those areas where it is needed.

Is there a special area of the »Berliner Zimmer« where you would place your product?

Is there a special area of the Berliner Zimmer where you would place your product?

The »Berliner Zimmer« is typical of old apartments from the turn of the century and the beginning of the 19th century. Also typical is the truss at the end of the hallway, whereby the final door is a couple of metres from the actual end. The inhabitants often use these areas in a very personal way, for example as an open wardrobe, an area for making music, or as a writing corner. With this positioning, the space functions almost like a small stage, and this interface of hallway and living space would be ideal for our KARLA dressing and makeup table.

What do you expect from the Biennale Interieur?

It’s the first time that we are a part of the Biennale. In addition to our objects, we would like to present our OSIS surface to architects and interior designers. As a panel material, there remains great deal of untapped potential in the object segment, such as offices or hotels, which we would like to jointly explore.

How important is design for society?

The biggest problem here is the breadth of the concept of design. The social relevance is somewhat lower in the context of a furniture show, which does not diminish the accomplishment of the design. Here, we are creating things for the moment. Furniture and objects with which we can live and work in an aesthetic sense. On the other hand, in times of crisis and in less developed countries, an intelligently designed solar flashlight can be of social and societal importance. That is important and good design – and another sphere of action.

When are you impressed by design?

Whenever we ask ourselves why something has not been invented earlier.