BRUTALISTA 01 is a minimalist coffee table created by Antwerp-based designer Marc Meeuwissen. This project, encapsulated by the concept of ‘One Sheet. One Saw. One Object,’ utilizes a single sheet of timber and restricts the creation process to just one handsaw. This constraint is central to the philosophy of the series, where limitations are viewed not as hindrances but as catalysts for creativity and innovation. The project thrives under these constraints, suggesting that the narrower the parameters, the more focused and inventive the design process becomes. This method encourages a deep dive into the capabilities of simple tools and materials, resulting in objects that are not only functional but also monumental in their aesthetic appeal.
The influence of brutalist architecture is evident in these creations, showcasing a raw, unrefined beauty that challenges conventional perceptions of design and craftsmanship. Central to the ‘BRUTALISTA’ series is an homage to the handsaw, a tool that shapes both the physical form and the surface texture of the objects. The use of the saw is highlighted in a manner uncommon in traditional craftsmanship, producing a rough, unpolished finish that emphasizes the material’s natural characteristics. The objects, crafted from hand-sawn Valchromat White Grey, feature surfaces that retain the marks of their making. These are partially coated with sawdust before being sealed with a water-based lacquer, further underscoring the tactile and visual impact of the handsaw’s role in the design process.