The summer months bring with them sunshine-filled days, the scent of sunscreen, and, above all, heat. If we’re lucky, we can take a trip to the beach or the pool, taking a welcome dip in cool waters.
Water is essential in summertime: whether swimming, boating, or staying hydrated, it’s the fuel that summer runs on. This month’s Edge post pays tribute to this natural resource, shining light on three innovative design projects that revolve around it, showcasing its versatile design properties.
In Sweden, Danish firm Norm Architects created a “floating village” for the Sjöparken gastro-tourist retreat. Inspired by Nordic and Japanese architecture, the complex, which houses Sweden’s largest producer of sparkling wine and a Michelin-star restaurant, centers around water elements.
Seven wooden villas line a shimmering lake, each connected by crystal-clear glass corridors that evoke a magical quality. The artificial lake creates the illusion that the complex is floating.
Changes in light reflection off the water’s surface create dynamic atmospheres within the villas, offering a unique visual experience. Norm Architects’ water-centric design creates a singular haven of tranquility.
French studio Niveau Zéro Atelier recently debuted a chaise lounge made from an unexpected material: wet clay.
The “Soft Soil Daybed,” unveiled at the Collectible design fair in Brussels, began with clay salvaged from Paris construction sites. The clay was refined, mixed with water, and filtered before being piped into a clear plastic sheath and vacuum-sealed to retain its water composition.
The result is a malleable cushion that molds to each occupant’s body. Richard Healy, director of the firm that commissioned the chaise, remarked that it challenges traditional upholstery concepts.
For last year’s Milan Design Week, Google collaborated with American artist Lachlan Turczan on an installation exploring water's artistic properties.
“Shaped by Water” featured mirrored stainless-steel basins filled with water, each vibrating at specific resonant frequencies to create unique wave patterns.
Another darkened room featured illuminated basins, reflecting refracted light onto a screen, displaying wave patterns synchronized to a 10-minute musical piece. Turczan likened the experience to “looking into a fire or cloud gazing.”
We hope this summer brings days spent on (or in!) the water. To get in the spirit, peruse the nautical shades of our marine-grade collections, Coast and Pumice, here:
