Faye Toogood's 'Bone, Roll, Slump' Collection: A Journey into Sculptural Furniture

British designer Faye Toogood has unveiled her latest furniture ensemble, titled 'Bone, Roll, Slump,' which evokes a sense of unearthed artifacts rather than manufactured items. This collection, consisting of diverse furniture pieces, showcases an aesthetic that suggests they were discovered or excavated, highlighting their inherent natural forms and substantial presence.
The initial segment, 'Bone,' draws inspiration from ancient bones and fossils, manifesting in a dining set. Its focal point is the 'Bone Table,' a substantial superellipse meticulously sculpted from solid oak, offered in both an eight-seat and a more compact six-seat circular configuration. The oak surfaces are treated with oil to preserve their inherent texture, promoting a graceful aging process. Additionally, the collection features 'Bone Chairs,' supported by two sturdy legs, presenting a primitive yet refined silhouette. These chairs are constructed with a timber framework, cushioned with wool, coconut husk, and natural latex, then enveloped in bouclé fabric, with alternative upholstery options available. The range includes a dining chair, an armchair, and an expansive 'Jumbo' armchair.
The collection further develops with 'Roll,' which presents a more contained aesthetic while maintaining the recurring themes of mass, dimension, and organic contours. This series includes console tables with three drawers and bedside tables with a single drawer, both shaped like elongated, rounded timber forms. These pieces are either supported by robust, trunk-like bases or elegantly cantilevered from the wall. The wood grain gracefully follows the curves of each item, with finishes such as golden oak, rich walnut, and ash tinted in 'Chalk,' 'Putty,' or 'Malachite.'
The culmination of the collection is 'Soft Slump,' characterized by its asymmetrical, bagel-shaped lounge chairs that convey a soft, yielding appearance. This effect is achieved through an innovative construction technique where extensive fabric, approximately four meters in length, is gathered and cinched, reminiscent of a duffel bag's drawstring, resulting in deep, inviting folds. These chairs are supported by either hand-forged, textured steel legs or industrial casters. Toogood asserts that these chairs are among the most comfortable she has ever created.
The 'Bone, Roll, Slump' collection stands out for its distinctive, captivating, and pleasantly tactile qualities. This blend of attributes imbues the pieces with a sense of both contemporary style and a profound connection to fundamental, natural elements, making each item feel timeless and deeply rooted in its material essence.
