The bowtie bench is a simple, modular design which has numerous functional applications. It can stand alone or be arranged in any number of configurations, from intimate 2-person seating (from which the name is derived) to larger arrangements of multiple forms such as a half circle, offset hourglasses or a sinuous repeating curve. The proportions of the design suggest that the form works equally well for seating, as a coffee table or bedside stand. Both the surface and dimensions allow for a wide range of purposes and environments. While I have designed this piece as an outdoor bench, it is equally at home indoors.
Each individual section is a cube comprised of 6 trapezoids (top, bottom and the 4 sides). The trapezoids angles add interest to an essentially simple shape while also angling the base of the cube back allowing the seated person room to tuck their feet slightly under. The top trapezoid is 21” at the broad edge, 16” at the narrow edge, and 18” between those two edges. The cube stands 16 ½” off the ground. This height includes four ½” feet that screw into holes in the bottom four corners of the cube. This causes the bench to hover slightly off the ground and effectively levels the bench while protecting the surface from abrasive wear.
I envision that the bowtie bench will be fabricated from aluminum or thin-gauge steel sheeting, but am open to different fabrication options and have even considered slipcast ceramic. The form will be flawless and seamless. If constructed of metal, it will be welded at the seams and each piece must be sanded so that no visible joins remain. The finish will be a single solid color, either a glaze or powder-coated finish in a palette of 4-5 colors that complement one another in any combination or pairing. I want the materiality of the bench to carry a certain weight that matches the solidity of the form while remaining light enough for ease of transport, both ergonomically and for shipping considerations.
Four images (Bowtie Bench, Benches, Arc Bench and Benches side view) illustrate a 3D rendering of the design. All other images are representative of my previous and current work.