Dezeen Magazine

Seasons by Valentin Loellmann

German designer Valentin Loellmann used hazel branches to create the knobbly legs of these benches, tables and stools.

Seasons by Valentin Loellmann

The naturally uneven legs were charred to black before being treated with wax.

Seasons by Valentin Loellmann

Polished oak was used for the seats and tabletops.

Seasons by Valentin Loellmann

Entitled the Fall/Winter collection, the furniture was recently presented at Galerie Gosserez in Paris alongside a second collection for Spring/Summer.

Seasons by Valentin Loellmann

We've previously featured a set of polyester-coated furniture by Loellmann.

See all our stories about blackened wood »

Here's some more information from the designer:


Galerie Gosserez "Seasons" by Valentin Loellmann

From 15th may to 13th july "Seasons" at Galerie Gosserez presents two interconnected collections by Valentin Loellmann that reflect a search for a system that depends on organic dynamism, rather than geometric dictation, aiming to open up a space where design might not only mold nature, but also be molded by it.

The project Seasons presents two interconnected collections by Valentin Loellmann which reflect a search for a system that depends on organic dynamism rather than geometric dictation, aiming to open up a space where design might not only mould nature, but also be moulded by it.

The collection Fall/Winter consists of stools, benches and tables with different dimensions, functions and structures. Although diverse in size and set-up, all pieces are characterised by a similar working process in which mortise-and-tenon joints are used to connect hazel branches to an oak top.

A mixture of sawdust and glue is used to fill and round off these connections, resulting in an aesthetic, organic form in which no sharp edges remain.

The pieces are burned and treated with wax, after which the top is sanded, polished and treated with oil. The hazel branches, chosen for their strength and straightness, introduce a natural dynamic into the final structure and give each piece a distinct recognisable character. Each piece is hand-made, marked and numbered.