Surface materials distributor IDS has donated sheets of its Hanex solid surfacing material in vibrant Orange to Michael Harris for the development of a contemporary furniture piece, titled Digital Desk 21, which is a contemporary take on the classic writing desk.
On 11th June, Harris and his striking furniture piece won the coveted Future Makers Design Award 2014 from the Craft Council of Ireland. The award-winning desk is designed for today's vibrant and open living/working spaces, and to be just as comfortable when using traditional pen and paper as it is with the latest digital equipment.
Harris, a mature student, is studying for a BSC in Furniture Design at the renowned GMIT Letterfrack in Ireland. It is a National Centre of Excellence in Furniture Design and Wood Technology, established in 1987.
The Hanex solid surfacing was used to create a boldly-coloured inlaid worksurface, chosen by the designer for its silky-smooth matt finish to contrast with the open grain of the ash timber.
The solid surface provided a durable and user-friendly surface to write on, with the colour and texture providing a visual and sensual treat to the end user. Hanex solid surfacing is available in a choice of 80 colours and designs and is exclusively distributed by IDS.
With its abillity to be seamlesly-jointed and thermo-formed, the material offers designers endless creative possibilities for interior fittings and furniture. The product comes in sheets sizes 12mm x 3680mm x 760mm on all decors, and 6mm x 2490mm x 760mm on the specialist ranges.
In terms of functionality, the desk is higher than average, designed to be used with a saddle stool and promote healthy posture. The legs are tapered and splayed outwards to give the desk a confident and robust stance. The large, shallow drawer gives ample storage, while the discreet power cable storage and access point at the back of the desk help keep the desk clutter free by removing unwanted cables and charges.
Michael Harris says: “Quality and longevity were of utmost importance to me, in build quality, and the materials I used. I wanted to put forward a bold design of the right now, contemporary in the true sense of the word, but keep an elegance and element of timelessness about it. I wanted the desk to be digital device-friendly. I have used clean lines and angled geometric surfaces to create a strong piece with a hidden complexity and thoughtfulness. The piece commands the space it occupies; it has a strong presence, and draws the viewer in to investigate.”
Hanex is exclusively distributed by IDS nationwide.
