Interview about Umma swing, winner of the A' Furniture Design Award 2024
Umma swing is designed to create a coastal, nautical ambiance. This versatile swing adapts very well for indoor or outdoor settings, offering a welcoming retreat for leisure time. The cushions evoke a sense of timelessness and peacefulness by the shore. Its curves and seamless lines distinguish it from other offerings in its category, while its dimensions are carefully crafted to ensure comfort. With its design and attention to detail, the Umma Swing is a testament to a commitment to both functionality and aesthetics.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsDuring some outdoor projects I looked for furniture that was lighter, without so much nautical rope, but elegant, without right angles. That they were versatile and durable. As I didn't find what I was looking for on the market, I developed the Umma Armchair, and later the Umma Swing as well as 8 other pieces that make up the Umma Collection.
When developing the Umma Collection I noticed that on the market we didn't have open swings that were comfortable and beautiful. Most of the swings were closed, thus preventing the relationship with the surrounding environment. So, following the same lines as the Umma Armchair, I developed the Umma Swing with its light and elegant aesthetic, which does not weigh down the environment, being a piece that is not only functional, but also decorative.
While designing the Umma Swing for both indoor and outdoor use, I focused on selecting robust materials like aluminum and nautical rope, which provide weather resistance while maintaining a visually delicate feel. This balance was essential to capture the tranquility and elegance of coastal surroundings. My goal was to create a restful piece that, while durable, conveys lightness and timelessness, complementing spaces without overwhelming them visually. In this way, the Umma Swing becomes an invitation to contemplation, evoking serenity and connecting the user with the surrounding environment.
The cushions of the Umma Swing were crafted to immerse the user in a feeling of peaceful suspension, as though resting by the shore. In the design process, I focused on creating a softness that mimics the gentle, enveloping embrace of waves. The shape and placement of the cushions were carefully considered to provide not only physical comfort but also an emotional experience, as if time slows and the surroundings fade into tranquility. This connection through form and comfort was key to evoke that timeless, serene atmosphere, allowing the swing to become a haven of quietude, whether by the ocean or in an indoor setting
Sustainability was central to the development of the Umma Swing, guiding both structural and aesthetic choices. The use of recyclable aluminum allowed for a lightweight yet durable frame, essential for achieving the swing's open, airy design that harmonizes with its surroundings. This material provided the flexibility to form continuous, flowing lines without right angles, enhancing the sense of visual lightness. Technical fabrics, chosen for their durability and eco-friendly properties, added to the swing’s resilience against various elements while keeping the aesthetic soft and refined. Each decision was a step toward creating a sustainable, elegant piece that merges functionality with an enduring, responsible design.
Receiving the Bronze A' Design Award for the Umma Swing is both an honor and a catalyst for future explorations. This recognition reinforces my commitment to creating furniture that transcends function and becomes a form of artistic expression. Moving forward, I am inspired to continue blending sculptural aesthetics with practical comfort, pushing boundaries with sustainable materials and fluid forms. The award fuels my vision to craft pieces that invite interaction and evoke emotion, bridging the gap between design and the human experience. I see it as a stepping stone to explore new concepts that challenge conventions while resonating deeply with those who engage with them.
Designing the Umma Swing to achieve both optimal comfort and an elegant, seamless look within its dimensions presented unique technical challenges. Maintaining the balance between a sturdy structure and a visually light appearance required precise engineering. The frame’s curvature and proportions were meticulously calculated to support a naturally ergonomic posture, ensuring comfort without adding bulk. Additionally, the placement and density of the cushions were adjusted to offer a soft, suspended feeling, enhancing the swing's inviting character. By focusing on these details, I was able to create a piece that feels as good as it looks, blending functionality with an effortless elegance
My background in architecture has deeply influenced my approach to furniture design, especially in the creation of the Umma Swing. With 27 years in the field, I’ve developed a keen eye for proportions, spatial harmony, and structural integrity, all of which are integral to my design philosophy. In the Umma Swing, I applied architectural principles—such as the flow of continuous lines and the balance between form and function—to achieve an open, inviting geometry that connects seamlessly with its surroundings. This approach allowed me to create a piece that feels like an extension of its space, blending architectural precision with a sense of lightness and movement.
Integrating nautical elements into the Umma Swing was a journey of research and experimentation aimed at capturing the essence of coastal living while keeping it versatile for varied environments. I explored traditional maritime materials, like nautical rope, known for its durability and natural texture, and combined it with sleek aluminum to evoke a sense of breezy elegance. The goal was to achieve a subtle maritime influence without being overly thematic, allowing the swing to feel at home in a range of settings. Experimenting with different textures, weaves, and proportions helped me create a design that hints at the sea’s tranquility yet retains a universal appeal, fitting seamlessly into both indoor and outdoor spaces
From the very start of Umma Swing’s development in February 2023, my commitment to creating 'unique and daring projects' shaped each design choice to ensure the piece was both functional and emotionally resonant. I wanted to challenge traditional expectations of a swing, crafting it with open, continuous lines that convey a feeling of suspension and lightness. Each curve and material was carefully selected to blend elegance with durability, allowing the swing to evoke a sense of calm and connection with its surroundings. This approach infused the piece with both a bold visual identity and a quiet emotional depth, creating an experience that goes beyond functionality to truly resonate with the user.
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