Live Sculpturally (Because Playing It Safe Is Boring)
While the expression “form follows function” is a sound credo, it seems entirely too spare to me. I don’t want to own a chair just because I need to sit down. I want to own it because it is lovely and I can sit on it.
Even architect Louis Sullivan, the author of that classic phrase, did not entirely adhere to its strictures, designing with intricate metalwork and other elaborate ornamentation on many of his buildings.
There is a really special chemistry that happens when a usable thing crosses over into an art form—where furniture meets sculpture. Pieces like the ones below are not meant to be safe choices. They are intended to add to your personal narrative in a way that inspires curiosity and sparks interesting conversations.
Let’s explore how and why to seek out unique, hand crafted furniture, plus how these exceptional pieces can elevate the character of your home.
Why own sculptural furniture?
The Knot Bench by CEU is modern and organic. You want to reach out and run your hand along the sinuous curves, interact with it. A one of a kind piece like this is a bold and personal statement that sets the tone for a home.
Where can I find hand crafted furnishings?
There are now more galleries and showrooms offering their curated view on sculptural furniture. The Future Perfect, with locations in New York, Florida, and California, is one such mecca for fascinating pieces like Chris Wolston’s ceramic Bouquet Chair 3. Other resources include Artemest and Artsy which both have stellar online shops; and galleries like Todd Merrill Studio in New York and Charles Burnand Gallery in London.
Are all of these pieces one of a kind?
The beauty of owning a piece of art furniture is that it is unique or one of only a small series of works. They are functional sculptures. There are only seven “Chunky” stools carved out of the gloriously pink/burgundy Breccia Medicea dell’Acquasanta marble shown here.
Can sculptural furniture be truly usable?
Absolutely. For any piece of furniture to be truly useful, the craftsperson has to educate themselves on material, form, and stability. That discovery process is also at the core of all artwork—whether it is learning a new technique or simply seeing something in a new way. That exploration sets an object on a path to true function or to pure form.
What is the right balance of one of a kind pieces in the home?
Your home tells the story of who you are, and the furnishings you choose are the words that make up the plot. Not every piece in a home needs to be a work of art, but adding one or two really special items that speak to you will highlight your individuality and reveal something about your interests and style.
What differentiates “regular” pieces from sculptural furniture?
Some furnishings are predictable—most people need eight dining chairs or a pair of nightstands, for example. A truly unique piece, however, doesn’t require any matching companions, because furniture as artwork stands alone. It inspires conversation and curiosity, and perhaps it is even a little polarizing. Just like any great painting or sculpture might be.
In our design practice, we celebrate the craftsmanship of artists and makers. Their vision and skill help our clients express their individuality and to have a whole lot of fun doing it.
