Dezeen Magazine

Benjamin Hubert patterns ceramic containers with raised seams

London designer Benjamin Hubert has moulded a range of ceramic containers to leave spiral and criss-crossing seams around the outside (+ slideshow).

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

Designed for Italian ceramic manufacturer Bitossi Ceramiche, the collection of five Canisters are developed from Hubert's previous collection for the brand that was decorated in a similar way.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

"Canisters expands the Seams range created last year, which became Bitossi Ceramiche's best-selling product in a 20-year history," said Hubert.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

To create the thin lines across the exterior of the cylindrical containers, the moulds are spilt into several sections so the material escapes into the joins during the slip-casting process.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

"The moulds require an intricate and innovative method of production to split them into the multiple components necessary to create the seam lines," the designer said.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

Instead of removing these seams after production, they are left as details across the surfaces.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

Each of the vessels is a slightly different size, ranging from tall and thin to short and wide.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

The slimmer designs are patterned with spiralling lines that curve from the circular opening in the top down to the base.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

Diamonds and triangles are formed by the seams on the wider pieces, created using small mould sections.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

"The new collection stems from the studio's research into creating mass-produced products with unique details by manipulating a traditional ceramic manufacturing process," Hubert said.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi

"The studio began the project with a study into the slip casting process to establish how it could be utilised to introduce decorative elements to the product," he added.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi
Removing a Canister from its mould

Each is coloured in a different hue and is finished with a matt glaze. Matching lids feature slender vertical tabs for lifting.

Canisters by Benjamin Hubert for Bitossi
Removing a Canister from its mould

Hubert has also launched a collection of blown-glass lampshades and a modular sofa system this year.