Aluminium is quickly gaining popularity as the material of the moment. With its enduring nature and aesthetic appeal, it seamlessly fits into various interior design styles. Designers, both in commercial and household settings, are embracing aluminium for its versatility. In this article, we'll explore why aluminium is a must-have material in your home.
1. The Impact of Aluminium
The world we know today would be drastically different without aluminium. Its flexibility and lightweight properties made it a favored material in the late 19th century. Aluminium quickly found its way into our homes, with household essentials like aluminium foil and cookware becoming commonplace.
In a groundbreaking development, aluminium played a critical role in the construction of the first-ever working airplane by the Wright brothers in 1903. No other material at the time was as durable and lightweight as aluminium, making it essential for flight.
2. Form and Function
Aluminium evolved from being purely functional to becoming aesthetically pleasing as well. Take, for example, the Emeco 1006 chair, also known as the Navy chair. Originally designed for use on battleships, this chair had to withstand harsh sea air and potential torpedo blasts. Despite its utilitarian origins, the Navy chair gained attention from high-end restaurants and interior designers for its durability and sleek design.
As design trends shifted towards a cleaner, minimalist aesthetic, aluminium found its place. Designers recognized its beauty and endless possibilities. Aluminium became the material without limits, allowing for creative and minimalistic designs.
3. Aluminium in Architecture
The creative potential of aluminium led to increased production, making it more affordable for domestic use. It started replacing wood and other materials in windows, doors, furniture, and finishes. The corrosion-resistant properties of aluminium made it ideal for coastal areas.
Architects began exploring the material's unique properties to create innovative structures. In Norway, Stinessen Arkitektur built three stunning cabins clad in aluminium over the Barents Sea. Aluminium not only protected the wooden structure from the corrosive saltwater but also added a modern and unforgettable design element.
4. Bringing Aluminium into Your Home
4a) Lighting
A fantastic way to incorporate aluminium into your home is through lighting fixtures. Aluminium lights exude a sense of grandeur while staying true to their utilitarian roots. The juxtaposition of elegance and functionality allows aluminium lights to effortlessly blend into any setting, whether modern or traditional.
Furthermore, aluminium lights are exceptionally durable and hardwearing, making them a perfect investment for your home.
4b) Furniture
Furniture made from aluminium provides another avenue to introduce this versatile material into your home. Chairs, tables, and even chest of drawers made from aluminium offer sleek and minimalist designs, allowing the material to speak for itself.
One notable example is the "Shades of Michelangelo" chair created by Tokyo-based architect and designer Toshiki Omatsu. The chair's minimalistic design, crafted from aluminium and maple, is visually stunning and comfortable. The marriage of these materials adds structural strength and a unique twist to the chair's aesthetics.
5. Environmentally Friendly
In today's environmentally conscious world, aluminium stands out as a recyclable material. By choosing aluminium products for your home, you can contribute to a sustainable future. With aluminium, you can add sophistication and style to your living spaces without harming the planet.
In conclusion, aluminium has become an indispensable material in interior design. Its versatility, durability, and environmentally friendly nature make it an excellent choice for any home. So why wait? Embrace the beauty and functionality of aluminium in your living spaces today!