GRAVITAS for ARCA
2023
Gravitas for Arca was born out of the relationship between nature, space and mankind. The series
hinges on conceptual yet empirical juxtapositions - rough vs. polished surfaces and gravity vs.
lightness. The result is very organic: balancing the utilitarian and sculptured, Gravitas is a timeless 18-piece furniture collection that marries the creative's design prowess with ARCA's exquisite stone portfolio.
Van Duysen, a well-known advocate of authenticity and human-centered design principles,
brings his unique perspective to the world of ARCA. The works of Isamu Noguchi, Anish
Kapoor, James Turrell, and Roni Horn served as primary sources of inspiration. True to his
practice’s DNA, he selected materials in desaturated, earthy hues from both European and
Mexican quarries and enlisted artisans and craftspeople from Spain, Italy and Mexico.
“Natural materials are the focus of my creations. They instill a sense of serenity and wholeness
into my projects,” shared Van Duysen. “Often, a significant part of the emotion in my work
comes from my consideration for the materials within a space. In this instance, my approach to
materials was quite different – the stones selected are integral to the story I want to tell. In this
collection, the stone is the protagonist.”
Gravitas is emblematic of Van Duysen's distinctive style, which emphasizes simplicity, and a
close relationship with nature. The collection, which consists of chairs, coffee tables, dining
tables, library stands, chaise lounge, and stools, explores the stone's inherent beauty while
showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship that went into their creation.
“I decided to have different textures on the pieces to recognize the beauty of nature. The rough
surfaces are really tactile and refers to my preference for raw materials. The smooth and shiny
surfaces give a void optical effect of lightness and infinity. It also gave these objects a sense of
dynamism by confronting the same material but with two different treatments. Like finding
balance in nature,” said Vincent Van Duysen.
While keeping a great sense of scale, proportion, and materiality, the 18 pieces blend
contemporary aesthetics with the allure of natural stone. Porfido from Italy, Cafesina from Spain,
Lava Stone from Mexico, and Carrara Marble from Italy, provide an edge to the design with their
unique hues and properties.
“ARCA knows my work very well and they proposed a selection of stones that speak to my
aesthetic and universe. They have incredible knowledge of the stones they are using and their
insights have led me to discover incredible new stones.” declared Vincent Van Duysen.
ARCA shares Van Duysen's enthusiasm for the collaboration. "In Vincent Van Duysen, we found
a partner who understood the soul and nature of our stones. His designs have brought out the
best in our materials, creating a collection that exudes both refinement and raw beauty," said
José Fernández, CEO ARCA World Wide. "Working with Vincent pushed our limits towards
perfectionism. His thorough precision and his unwavering pursuit of excellence have brought out
the best of our materials, resulting in a collection that is extraordinary," commented Gerardo
Cortina Wiechers, Founder ARCA World Wide.
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More info: ArcaGravitas.com
Photos by Nick Hudson
Publications:
Surface Design Dispatch, 11 December 2023
Business of Home, 15 December 2023
Trendhunter.com, 20 December 2023
Arivaa Lifestyle, 27 December 2023
