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Redefining spaces with “among-us”
Patricia Urquiola's "among-us" is not a literal interpretation of a space, but rather a conceptual question of how we connect with our surroundings and technology. Her installation explores the myriad ways we engage with each other and the environments we inhabit, urging us to reconsider our relationships not only with those around us but also with the tools and processes that shape our world.
A multi-layered experience
The installation unfolds in layers, each offering a distinct sensory experience. The initial interaction is with the digital environment, a space characterized by a large pixelated grid reminiscent of the designer's studio sketches. This grid forms the foundation of the installation, inviting visitors to engage with it both passively and actively.
Upon stepping into the second layer, visitors are encouraged to remove their shoes, fostering a tactile relationship with the materials and the space itself. This intentional step, akin to being in one's home, enhances the sensory engagement of the feet, a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of perception. This interaction creates a more profound connection with the environment, highlighting the importance of sensory experiences in spatial design.
Textiles as a dynamic medium
Patricia Urquiola’s work with textiles further exemplifies her innovative approach. She regards textiles as ever-changing surfaces that capture the fluidity of time. Through touch, these materials adapt, morphing with each interaction. This adaptability is reflected in every aspect of the installation, including the flooring, which complements the fluid nature of the project.
The role of technology in craftsmanship
The installation also highlights an intriguing conversation between technology and design. Patricia Urquiola elaborates on her collaboration with a robotic tufting machine, exploring the potentials of materials like Econil, a recycled nylon, instead of traditional fibers like wool.
The process involved slow but meaningful interactions with the machine and underscores the potential of technology to enhance craftsmanship, maintaining the delicacy and sensibility of traditional techniques while incorporating modern advancements.
The art of integration
The culmination of these elements is a space that draws visitors into an ongoing conversation. The installation is adorned with tapestries that protect and define the space, acting as hybrid creatures that blend various materials and colors into a harmonious palette. The sensibility ingrained in the work invites observers to recognize that "among-us" extends beyond physical interactions to include the broader possibilities within textile design.
A reflection on collaborative and artistic expression
"among-us" at Heimtextil 2025 reflects that design is a collaborative process that thrives on the interplay of tradition and innovation, urging us to appreciate the nuanced relationships we form with the spaces and objects around us. This installation stands as a manifestation to her philosophy and invites us all to engage more thoughtfully with the environments we occupy.
Credit header photo: © Daniele Ansidei
