As our North American agrarian roots gave way to a more modern ‘developed’ society so too did the need for our children to work on the farm give way. In its stead, our summer has evolved into a time to thoroughly enjoy the weather, lolling about in warm breezes, imagining a life far less hurried. The summer of 2015 brought us both the accessible middle market Fatboy Picnic Lounge and the capital ‘C’ couture Daydreamer Lounge from Jan Kath. What does 2016 offer to sooth our weary souls? Meine Damen und Herren, Ich vorstelle die ‘CarpetHammock’ von REUBER HENNING!
It is no secret I have a certain proclivity for the relaxed and casual. Those who know me best know I am most comfortable in jeans and a stylish graphic t-shirt, but this is not to say I don’t have an eye for style. And this, ladies and gentlemen, this hammock from REUBER HENNING, in very special collaboration with Berlin label BLESS, exudes style. Neither confined to ‘working class’ jeans and t-shirt nor the glamour of San Tropez, ‘CarpetHammock’s’ appeal transcends station by blending the most ordinary with the most exquisite in an ingenious and curious way. With minimal alteration – in this case merely having the forethought to grossly extend the warp threads – an object originally designed for the floor suddenly becomes so much more. From REUBER HENNING:
‘In line with the concept of the Readymade, the rug has been removed from its traditional place, the floor, almost unchanged. Within the context of the project, it has been redefined as a suspended, moving piece of furniture, a luxurious place to sleep and work.’
She (the hammock that is) is based on REUBER HENNING’s design ‘Casablanca Flowers’. By suspending the carpet up in the air, not only do both sides of the handknotted rug become visible, but its very fabric – the foundation – seems to expand further into the room like a spider’s web. ‘CarpetHammock’ is the latest in a series of re-imagined hammocks from BLESS, part of their ‘BLESS N°28 Climate Confusion Assistance‘ project. The ‘CarpetHammock’ will soon be available for purchase from both REUBER HENNING or BLESS.
Given the relative simplicity – and thus the appeal – of the concept I imagine any quality carpet maker worthy of the moniker would be able to produce one of their own carpets in the style of the ‘CarpetHammock’, and as such perhaps we’ll see other makers offering this most indulgent hammock option in the future. Whether they do or not however will not detract from this innovation by REUBER HENNING; rather it will solidify their standing as a brand at the vanguard of design. So if you fancy yourself an eccentric connoisseur of unique furnishings and/or carpets and posses a love of truly luxurious lounging, I suggest you find a space in your life for one of these.