At Milan Design Week, Cologne-based studios BUDDE and Nando Studio introduced DUNE, a unique hybrid of a rug and chaise lounge that pushes the boundary between functional furniture and textile art. The piece combines sculptural elegance with practical versatility, inviting users to rethink their interaction with everyday objects.
A Dialogue Between Movement, Material, and Form
DUNE was designed as a response to the way bodies rest and move. Drawing inspiration from desert landscapes and nomadic cultures, the designers shaped DUNE to reflect the curves of sand dunes—natural forms that suggest both softness and strength. The result is a low-slung, inviting structure that functions as both a floor covering and a seat.
This concept stems from a desire to create objects that can shift roles as seamlessly as they shift appearances. When flat, DUNE reads as a minimalist, textured rug. When lifted, it forms a gentle slope—a chaise for reclining or contemplation.
Crafted with Purpose
The material choices reflect both beauty and utility. DUNE is made from hand-woven Merino wool, a material known for its softness and durability. The base is supported by a bent aluminum frame, which gives the piece its wave-like form while allowing it to retain flexibility.
The designers intentionally kept the palette neutral, allowing the form and texture to speak louder than color. The tactile quality of the wool contrasts with the clean lines of the frame, offering an experience that is both grounded and sculptural.
Beyond Furniture: A Tactile Experience
According to the designers, DUNE is meant to offer a sensory moment in the day—something to lie on, sit beside, or simply observe. It transforms passive floor space into an area of reflection and pause. Presented at the Rossana Orlandi Gallery, the piece captured the attention of visitors for its quiet elegance and conceptual depth.
