At ORGATEC TOKYO 2024, UniFor showcased its flexible and innovative PRINCIPLES collection, designed in collaboration with OMA and inspired by traditional Japanese architecture.
UniFor, a subsidiary of the Molteni Group, exhibited its PRINCIPLES collection at ORGATEC TOKYO 2024. In collaboration with the renowned OMA studio and supported by local partner Shukoh, UniFor’s presentation captured the essence of traditional Japanese architecture while highlighting the brand’s innovative approach to office design.
The layout, meticulously designed by UniFor, drew inspiration from Japanese architectural culture. It featured a metal structure adorned with lacquered wooden panels in UniFor’s signature red, reminiscent of the iconic Shinto Torii gates. This design choice symbolized a gateway to sacred spaces, creating a harmonious blend of cultural homage and modern design. The structure’s triangular profiles echoed the Naòs table designed by Pierluigi Cerri in 1993, seamlessly integrating lighting and enhancing the exhibition’s aesthetic appeal.
Orgatec Tokyo: Versatile Furnishings and Padded Islands
Inside the exhibition space, visitors encountered an environment that flowed effortlessly from one area to another, embodying a balance of public and private spheres. Central to this setup was an informal meeting area designed as a square, fostering collaboration and idea exchange. The space featured versatile furnishings including padded islands and a multifunctional trolley equipped with lamps, creating a dynamic and adaptable setting.
Adjacent to the central square, a dedicated meeting area showcased an electrified table with integrated LEDs and a monitor stand, emphasizing the collection’s focus on technology and connectivity. The third section of the exhibit displayed curved, concave, and convex sofas paired with high and low tables, illustrating the collection’s adaptability to various work modes and environments.
The PRINCIPLES Collection: 100+ Elements
The PRINCIPLES collection itself is a testament to UniFor’s commitment to flexibility and functionality. Comprising over a hundred elements organized into families such as tables, soft furnishings, dividing panels, and sofas, the collection offers limitless compositional possibilities. Available in sizes ranging from S to XL, each element is designed to accommodate diverse work needs, integrating advanced material technology, soundproofing, and connectivity wiring.
Highlighting the collection was a monolithic blue element that discreetly concealed technical and service areas, maintaining the exhibition’s sleek and cohesive design. This design ingenuity underscored UniFor’s ability to blend form and function seamlessly.
The collaboration with OMA, an international practice known for its groundbreaking architectural and urban projects, further elevated the presentation. OMA’s portfolio includes significant projects like the Taipei Performing Arts Centre, the CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, and the Seattle Central Library, reflecting a legacy of architectural excellence and innovation.
ORGATEC TOKYO, launched in 2022, serves as a pivotal platform for office and facility design, attracting key industry players from across Asia. The event, an extension of the esteemed ORGATEC trade show in Cologne, Germany, has quickly established itself as a hub for cutting-edge solutions and design inspiration in response to evolving work styles.
UniFor’s participation in ORGATEC TOKYO 2024 not only marked its entry into the Japanese market but also showcased its dedication to creating spaces that enhance operational and communicative continuity in contemporary work environments. The PRINCIPLES collection stands as a versatile and innovative solution, poised to redefine office design standards globally.
