Foster + Partners has launched a new range of furniture at Clerkenwell Design Week, in collaboration with the leading British furniture maker, Benchmark.
The collection includes the AYA standing and conference tables, and the AYA high stool, which enable flexible touchdown working in the office. All pieces are made from solid sustainably sourced FSC British grown ash and embrace variation of character to minimise waste. They are designed to be easily disassembled for repair and are finished with natural oils to facilitate refurbishment, allowing them to be in use for several lifetimes.
Mike Holland, Senior Partner and Head of Industrial Design, Foster + Partners, said: “We are delighted to unveil this new range, which has been developed in close collaboration with Benchmark. AYA responds to the evolving nature of the workplace and allows for more agile working scenarios. The simplicity of form and efficient use of materials make these pieces timeless, sustainable additions to the office.”
The AYA table is available at standing height - for more informal working scenarios - or as a lower conference table. The durable table has soft splined edges and brings the notion of the library to touchdown working. A linear light rail can be added, along the centre of the table, which psychologically provides a sense of privacy for those sitting on either side.
AYA offers a suite of power options, which can be specified on a project-by-project basis. Power is supplied to the worksurface via the leg of the table and flush panels on the tabletop seamlessly conceal plug sockets, for charging laptops and phones.
Foster + Partners and Benchmark have also designed a high stool which aligns with the standing table. The stool shares the soft geometry of the table and incorporates foot rails for additional comfort. The team are planning to extend the range of seating to include lower stools and benches for the conference table.
The AYA collection has Red List Free Declare Labelling, meaning that it is free from toxic chemicals and meets the air quality standards for WELL certified buildings. Benchmark are launching the range with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), to demonstrate their commitment to measuring and reducing the environmental impact of these products.
