(Archive) Potentials

Open for further Processing

The collection, which centers on untreated denim remnants, is supported by minimalist frames made of ash wood. The commitment to preserving the raw state of the fabric is evident in the small cuts and seams, as well as the use of denim in the finer details like weights and straps. The structural dependence of the objects on the denim fabric is a central principle. In all pieces, the fabric is merely temporarily incorporated into the structure through wrapping, clamping and filling.

The resulting five-piece office furniture series, consists of a room divider, floor mat, leaning bench, low stool and coat rack.

'Potentials' is a project by Studio Johanna Seelemann, commissioned by Dutch fashion brand G-Star Raw for 'The Art of Raw’. G-Star's Amsterdam headquarters, an architectural masterpiece by Rem Koolhaas' OMA, and the functional elegance of Jean Prouvé's office furniture were the inspiration for their aesthetic language.

Concept for Use — Borrowing Materials

The stool, standing bench and room divider explore the concept of borrowing, altering the denim fabric as little as possible.

The room divider serves as a floating element in the space, constructed by weaving fabric into a lightweight frame. It is both ornamental and an interior design component.

The stool serves as a contrast to the usual office chairs. Two wooden elements are tied together by the rolled-up fabric.

The leaning bench promotes a resting position that is neither fully standing nor fully sitting. It provides an opportunity for gathering and conversation. The leaning surface was wrapped on both sides with one textile piece.

Temporary Content

To highlight the remarkable stability of the material, the floor mat and valet stand use filling techniques with an interplay of weight to support the structures. Equal to the use of pants, their filling can be removed, and the cover can be transported in a folded form.

The valet stand is a structure of two parts that stabilize each other. Due to the weight of the filled denim, the wooden frame holds its position.

The floor mat is a reinterpretation of the typical anti-fatigue mats, designed to diversify standing postures for long periods.