Less is More, with Micro-Architecture
With more and more businesses focusing on the outdoors, creating new spaces for their customers that allow for social-distancing and a greater sense of privacy even when working or dining in the open air, they’re likewise looking for more aesthetically appealing and attractive design solutions. From pods to cabanas, you can now find near-endless ways to dine or socialize outdoors in some of the world’s best cities, from Los Angeles to NYC.
One design trend you’ll see a lot of, and which more businesses should pay attention to? Micro-architecture.
What Exactly is Micro-Architecture?
For those not in the design space, micro-architecture is a growing (though not growing quite quickly enough, if you ask the Agency 967 team!) trend that blends furniture and architecture together for flexible design solutions that are not only pleasing to look at but also incredibly convenient to use (and a lot of micro-architecture pulls double duty by serving an array of functions).
One great 2020 article from Arch Daily describes micro-architecture this way: “The constant decrease in living space is pushing furniture design towards more complex and multi-functional solutions, ideally molded onto the space they populate. The morphing of furniture into a kind of micro architecture is enhanced by the appeal of modularity and ready-built parts, which, albeit a legacy of the Modernist era, have reached technological feasibility in recent years.”
So, in other words, micro-architecture is a trend that has grown out of necessity, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the outdoor spaces that have grown in popularity due to the pandemic.
Some of Our Favorite Micro-Architecture Options
If you’re interested in adding micro-architecture to your outdoor space, some of my favorite options include Dedon’s Swingrest and Nestrest. Dedon offers a vast array of different micro-architecture solutions, all of which are very elegantly designed and would look at home at any upscale restaurant or hotel. (Dedon also has a 5,600-square-foot showroom in Manhattan, in case you’re in the area and want to check out the brand’s work first-hand.)
Dedon - Swingrest
Gloster offers a few similar options, like the Cradle Collection, which creates defined spaces without inhibiting your views or creating isolating experiences (if privacy isn’t what you’re aiming for). Gloster’s configurable Lodge Collection is less modern but offers more privacy, with a daybed-cabana feel and optional screens.
Gloster - Cradle
For something unique and equally eco-friendly, Vondom delivers. From the spherical and adaptable Moon collection of seating to the brand’s triangular Vineyard collection of daybeds to the eye-catching And collection, each of Vondom’s offerings is a feast for the eyes.
Vondom - Moon
Have your seating sorted, but need something eye-catching to create a sense of separation for your outdoor spaces? We like the Eclipse Cabana option from Tuuci, which helps create a luxe modular living space with ease.
Tuuci - Eclipse
Is Your Outdoor Space Ready for Summer?
You may think that outdoor seating is something you don’t necessarily need to worry about at the moment and something you can think on for a while to come, but don’t make that mistake — summer will be here before you know it. When it’s time for us to get back to socializing outdoors, no matter how or where or when, you’ll want to ensure your outdoor space is ready, whether or not you incorporate micro-architecture into your design.
Whether you’re building a brand-new space, refining an in-process space, or completely ditching your current set-up and replacing it all, Agency 967 can help make your outdoor space a beautifully designed work of art, whatever your tastes. Take advantage of our 25 years of experience in the contract furniture industry, and let’s talk about your design needs!
