A celebration of curiosity and observation, come take a seat on Bauhaus

Commissioned by the National Gallery of Victoria to design seating for their opulent and intricate Great Hall, Helen Kontouris’ design for LEN features a collection of vibrant modules that can be arranged and rearranged in various settings.

Drawing elements of functionality and universality from the Bauhaus art movement, the seating system reflects the geometric nature of the Hall’s stained glass ceiling; segmented and divided.

Despite the use of a bold, and both analogous and complementary, colour palette, the Bauhaus Seating System remains undeniably sophisticated and inviting thanks to its uncomplicated structure. Each unit is gently rounded and dense in composition and can be paired and arranged into unique shapes and configurations. The ability to arrange and rearrange the Bauhaus system makes it a uniquely interactive network that remains flexible and timelessly adapted to public areas, workspaces and environments.

Aspects of the Bauhaus movement are clearly integrated into the design of this seating system. Recurring shapes such as squares, triangles and circles are divided by the strongly segmented design – exploring symmetry, asymmetry, and different proportions; offering the potential to reshape the overall appearance.

“With ‘Bauhaus’, I’ve conceived a collection that’s rich in expression, conceived from childhood memories that have informed my designs from a formative age – it’s been an opportunity to explore the articulation of creative process through these recollections” says Kontouris. Handcrafted in Melbourne, Bauhaus offers a range of upholstered finishes; the potential textural variety contributes to a sense of contrast; and playfulness within the collection.

Muting the featured colour palette draws interest to the fabric, leather and two-tone upholstered finishes, adding depth and variation within the greater appearance. In addition to this, Bauhaus does not falter in its exceptional detailing and stitching with the quality of the seating elevating the luxury it offers.

Bauhaus is an observation of simplicity and the comforts resulting from it. A revitalising collection drawing from colour theories and purposeful design, Bauhaus cleverly reworks a simple and modern silhouette and finds interest in subtle variation and timeless design.