Knotted Bench

Knotted Bench

Knotted Bench is an innovative furniture design that addresses intergenerational social challenges through its distinctive form and conceptual approach. Created by Korean designer Minju Kang in collaboration with Jieun Park and Haneul Han, this sculptural seating solution measures 2460mm x 630mm x 500mm and employs a unique construction methodology utilizing wire ELP conduit, cable ties, and stainless pipe. The design's fundamental concept revolves around unifying disparate social elements, symbolically represented through its interconnected structure that resembles a continuous ribbon-like form. The bench's construction involves carefully hand-bent pipes secured with cable ties to create a stable, unified structure finished in matte black, demonstrating both aesthetic refinement and structural integrity. This public furniture piece, which earned the Bronze A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category, serves as a physical manifestation of social cohesion and sustainable design principles. The bench's innovative approach to material usage, incorporating repurposed wire ELP pipes, transforms industrial components into a functional art piece suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its ergonomic design accommodates various sitting positions, encouraging social interaction and community engagement, while its aesthetic composition challenges traditional furniture design conventions. The project, completed in December 2022 in Gongju city, Korea, represents a thoughtful response to contemporary social issues, particularly focusing on generational integration and sustainable environmental practices.

furniture design, social innovation, sustainable materials, public seating, sculptural bench, intergenerational design

— Adam Dawson