The Moon Gate, a mystical architectural element of Oriental origin, gets a contemporary reinterpretation in Moon Vignettes, a dynamic installation by Kuwait-based Babnimnim Design Studio (BNN) for global architectural surfaces leader Cosentino. The archetypal moon-like gateway of yore is reimagined as free-standing circular portals that appear to rise from the ground. Symbolic of the cyclical nature of life, the abstracted moon gates in the installation also allude to the “circular nature” of Cosentino’s sustainable surfaces Silestone and Dekton – the brand’s large format hero materials that seamlessly clad everything from the walls to the flooring. The installation stands out for pushing the frontiers of materiality in design by using Cosentino’s impressively scaled slabs as place making elements rather than mere cladding.
Embracing the elegance of simplicity in design, Moon Vignettes, is an artistic composition of three elements: rectangular monolithic walls, circular cut-outs and intricate wooden joinery. The installation is visually stimulating for its play of earthy colours, textures – a juxtaposition of fluted, matte, high gloss and suede, and ever-changing views though the moon gates, each vignette more alluring than the other. Remarkably permeable, the design invites free flow through the portals on all four sides and a kaleidoscope of vistas both looking-in and looking-out as one walks through and around the installation.
Other extraordinary details include flora spilling out of the portals like flowering cornucopia, phases of the moon captured through sculptural pieces made from offcuts and a curious collection of furniture from Cassina and lighting novelties from Vibia.
A perfect balance of masculine and feminine, Moon Vignettes is at once calming yet invigorating. Celebrating the interconnectedness of life, the installation is an enticing invitation to slow down and immerse in a world were tradition meets modernity.
(Link will be updated with the latest details on the first day of Downtown Design 2024)
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