Herzog & de Meuron's Architectural Approach to Furniture Design
The MTM collection explores how architectural principles adapt to furniture design.
1Adapting Architectural Principles to Furniture
Herzog & de Meuron translates architectural systems into furniture design with the MTM collection. Fundamental principles like geometry, proportion, and structural integrity are used to create a furniture series that adapts to different functions. This approach diverges from traditional methods where each piece is designed independently.
212-Degree Geometry
The collection's foundation lies in a 12-degree geometry, offering a flexible and adaptable system. This mathematical approach allows various products—tables, benches, and even a ping-pong table—to be produced with the same structural logic while varying in length and function.
3Traditional Timber Joinery Techniques
One of MTM's most critical elements is the castle joint technique that connects four timber beams. Historically requiring complex woodworking skills, this method is updated with modern engineering. Hidden metal rods enable wider spans while maintaining structural clarity.
4Material Diversity
The collection uses solid wood for the structural frame while introducing variety through surfaces of natural oak, colored glass, travertine, and Lepanto Red stone. A polished mirror-finished steel version tests how the principle adapts to different material expressions.
5Contextual Design Philosophy
Like Herzog & de Meuron's architectural projects, MTM produces context-specific solutions rather than imposing a fixed design language. Each furniture piece can be extended, reduced, or reconfigured based on the spatial requirements of its environment.
6Unity of Design and Function
The MTM collection is shaped not just by aesthetics but by structural intelligence and functionality. The fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering offers a fresh approach to furniture design. This project serves as an important example of how architectural thinking can be applied across different scales.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Herzog & de Meuron'un Mobilya Tasarımına Mimari Yaklaşımı