Observation becomes a design method for the KIBEKOUMUTEN bench
Observation.01 is a furniture project by KIBEKOUMUTEN Inc., led by designer Masahiro Kibe, which explores how material behavior can influence design decisions. Developed around Kvadrat Argo 2, a long-pile fabric, the project examines the relationship between materialstructure and form through an iterative process of observation rather than predetermined outcomes.
The project started with the characteristics of the Kvadrat Argo 2 and a question about the role of the material in the design process. Instead of applying the fabric on an existing object, the design evolved through a series of full-scale mock-ups that examined the fabric’s behavior at edges, corners, surfaces and points of contact with the body. Observations made during these studies led to subsequent decisions about proportion, structure, color and detail.
all images courtesy of KIBEKOUMUTEN Inc.
The tubular steel structure supports a long-pile fabric bench
The resulting bench combines a powder-coated steel frame with a Kvadrat Argo 2 upholstered seat. A simple tubular construction with curved members provides support while allowing the fabric to remain the defining visual and tactile element. Structural configuration, dimensions and finishes were refined throughout the development process in response to material performance rather than fixed design intent.
Remark.01 by KIBEKOUMUTEN Inc. and designer Masahiro Kibe documents a series of design judgments shaped by repeated encounters with the material. Rather than presenting a final or definitive solution, the work records an ongoing process in which form emerges through testing, interpretation and adaptation. It is part of a wider research series by KIBEKOUMUTEN Inc. which explores observation as a design method and the role of material in creating architectural outcomes and product design.
a bench developed through material observation
Long pile fabric informs the design process
Material behavior guides official decisions
