An unlikely collaboration between David Trubridge and Bleux, delivers handsome results
August 1st, 2012
A Trans-Tasman, multi-discipline collaboration between David Trubridge and Bleux has seen the evolution of some three dimensional designs into two-dimensional patterned wall finishes.
The decorative lighting and furniture designs of New Zealand-based designer, David Trubridge, are instantly recognisable and widely regarded as defining examples of 21st Century design. His works express a unique maritime character – attributed to his background in naval architecture and years spent sailing the world with his family.
Studies in the fluid properties of timber, plywood and renewable materials such as bamboo; Trubridge’s collections serve to punctuate any space they inhabit. As though approaching each product design with a sculptor’s mentality, every light or seat expresses a hearty affection for patterning and a command of geometry that ensures the framework of each design is the most engaging element.
Enter Bleux, a graphic design studio in Sydney, Australia, that deals chiefly in functional decoration and interior graphics.
In the spirit of collaboration Trubridge’s intricate pencil sketches and hand-drawn studies were made available to Bleux
“we then took those forms, and reinterpreted them” says Skye Molyneux, director of the firm.
What has emerged is a lively collection of prints that derive their patterning from nature and through reinterpretation they present Trubridge’s scribbles in a new, two-dimensional light and on a new scale.
“The results speak for themselves” says Trubridge, “…a range of patterns that not only tell the tale of their origins, but sparkle with the input of fresh ideas from this alliance…”
Suitable for wall paper, glass film and wall vinyls, the colours of the prints Bleux are launching this month, play into their natural influences, reflecting the hues and tones of the regions in New Zealand that initially inspired them, somewhat at odds with previous work from Bleux.
” our palette is more subdued for this collection however that’s what these beautiful forms called for – fluorescent purple just didn’t seem right!” explains Molyneux.
But in keeping with the firm’s philosophy of guaranteeing a truly customisable product, made entirely in Australia – the collection is adaptable and can be specified in any colour combination that suits the installation.
Though Trubridge originally hails from the UK his adopted New Zealand has seen his greatest success in the field of design. Coupled with the home-grown talents of Australia’s Bleux, this trans-tasman collaboration is sure to become a favourite for the region and beyond.
Bleux
David Trubridge Design
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