DUNE: A New Archetype of Tactile Design

In a quiet corner near Milan's Sant’Ambrogio, a captivating new design caught attention during Design Week. Named DUNE, this hybrid creation rethinks how we perceive rugs and seating. Developed by a German design studio in partnership with a contemporary rug atelier, the piece blends the tactile intimacy of textiles with the architectural presence of furniture.

DUNE is not merely an object; it's an exploration of form and comfort. Its structure unfolds in two parts: one flat, anchoring the piece like a traditional rug; the other gently raised, forming a sculpted, upholstered incline that serves as a soft, welcoming seat. This union challenges conventional domestic objects, offering a new archetype where fluidity and form coexist.

The use of fine merino wool paired with a lightweight aluminum base allows for both visual and physical balance. Drawing inspiration from desert landscapes and nomadic cultures, the piece echoes the soft curves of sand dunes. Its color palette shifts in earthy tones reminiscent of light changing across arid terrain; from pale morning hues to rich sunset shades.

More than aesthetics, the piece encourages interaction. It invites rest, reflection, and a reconnection with the body's natural rhythms. Its design emphasizes emotional comfort; through curves, texture, and warmth, it turns passive furniture into an active spatial experience.

The rug’s construction uses a tufting technique that embraces irregularity and invites touch. Far from a cold, rigid structure, it speaks of softness and presence, hinting at lived experience and tactile engagement. This artistic method transforms each piece into a sculptural surface designed to be inhabited and explored.

DUNE is a reminder that furniture can be more than functional. It can guide behavior, suggest new rituals, and create microenvironments within the home. Stripped of excess, it emphasizes material honesty and sensory depth, inviting the user into a slow, grounding experience. In doing so, it doesn't just fill space; it reshapes it.