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NENDO USES ALCANTRA’S ARTIFICIAL SUEDE TO IMITATE WOOD

The Japanese design studio constructs furniture using planks of the layered material

Alcantra is a suede-like material manufactured by the Italian company of the same name. Made from 68% polyester and 32% polyurethane, the material looks and feels like suede but is more durable and water-resistant than the real thing. As part of an exhibition titled “Alcantra, Technology of Dreams” at the Palazzo Reale in Milan, the company displayed a variety of designs that use the material including a series of imitation wood chairs and tables by Japanese design studio nendo. By rolling several layers of Alcantra into a “log” and sawing through, nendo was able to create planks of Alcantra that look very similar to dyed timber. The planks were then assembled on white metal frames, demonstrating the material’s practical application, but according to the studio, they can also be used as flooring. The exhibition is on display through the weekend. Check out a video of the exhibition here.

Alcantara, Technology of Dreams

Details

  • Milan, Italy
  • studio nendo