Design agency Mother's design division has unveiled a unique floating sofa during New York Design Week that serves as a playful critique of complacency towards climate change. Named the Bliss Sofa, this conceptual furniture piece doubles as a life raft, featuring cushions upholstered in orange fabric commonly used for life jackets. The detachable cushions can swiftly transform into flotation devices in the event of a flood. Additionally, the sofa includes a matching ottoman that opens like a suitcase to store items such as a cocktail shaker. Here is a detailed report on FURNITURE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (FDT).
The purpose of this one-of-a-kind sofa is to draw attention to the disparity in people’s capacity to respond to the consequences of the climate crisis. Mother founder Paul Malmstrom explained that those who possess the means are often unaffected by catastrophes like rising sea levels. He described the Bliss Sofa as catering to affluent individuals who can simply sit back, relax and float away when faced with water.
Functionally operational, the Bliss Sofa prototype is equipped with a water level gauge, emergency flares integrated into the armrests, and a paddle stored in its wooden backrest. The cushions are covered in water-resistant Sunbrella fabric and secured with black utility straps resembling those found on life jackets. The ottoman is designed to float alongside the sofa.
The Bliss Sofa comes with various accompanying objects, including a satirical manual instructing individuals on how to navigate being adrift at sea while ironically encouraging them to relax throughout the experience. Malmstrom clarified that the intention is, in fact, to discourage relaxation.
Mother plans to sell the piece and has committed to donating a portion of the proceeds to the United Nations Refugee Agency. The Bliss Sofa is currently on display as part of the Harmonious Proportions exhibition by Chelsea gallery Tuleste Factory during NYCxDesign.
Furniture Design India and the magazine FURNITURE DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY (FDT magazine) are from the trusted 22-year-old media house of SURFACES REPORTER and PLY REPORTER.
FDT is a B2B monthly bilingual magazine from India that shares the pulse of the furniture business in India and connects the manufacturers, OEMS, product designers, architects, showrooms, designers and dealers.
Read More© 2023 Furniture Design and Technologies.. All Rights Reserved. Developed by eyeQ Advertising
