todd macallen

molo premieres the aluminum textile soft collection at icff 2019. micro- coated with the actual metal, aluminum textile softwall + softblock, benchwall and softseating introduces new mercurial materiality to the award-winning molo soft collection in its 16th year at the show.

designed by stephanie forsythe + todd macallen, molo’s soft collection is a modular system of space partitions, lighting, table and seating elements that uses honeycomb geometry to flex, expand and compress. made from recyclable paper or non-woven textile materials, in a multi-patented system with magnetic end panels for flexible, modular arrangement, the collection empowers individuals to redesign and shape their surroundings with spontaneous ease.
the optical properties of the new aluminum textile finish create a lively range of reflected light and shadow across the pleated surfaces of the flexible structures. at an intimate, tactile scale, the thin coating of aluminum highlights the intricate pattern of textile fibers.
these pieces should be seen and touched in person to be fully appreciated. visitors to molo’s installation in new york will explore winding corridors that reveal acoustic spaces in which to meet, repose and study the effects of light. the morphing, flower-like forms of urchin table + floor light suddenly bloom around a corner, and cloud lights float overhead. curls shape shadows, grey like pencil shavings and sharpened by silvered patterns of sun cast over the shifting heights and positions of the walls. aluminum textile lounger awards explorers with a restful recline.

on the perimeter, high-backed benchwalls arrange flexible gathering space, curving in for intimate discussion, or reaching out into expansive lounge seating. the seating takes on a comfortable springiness over time as the top surface of textile crushes and softens with use, developing a beautiful patina of soft shining facets.

each entrance, course, and time of day presents a unique experience of the installation. we welcome you to explore and interact with all products in the soft collection: expand softwall in a variety of colours, spring open folding stools, benches and tables and share your project ideas on molo sketching circles. flexible in length, fluid in form, made of 99% air when expanded and able to pack flat for storage or transport, the structures may be reimagined endlessly for use in creative workplace, retail, residential, exhibition and event design.

molo co-founder and designer stephanie forsythe will be at icff to share her unique insight into the molo studio.