q-bic: Design from life

“One’s eyes must be open to everything, whether it is architecture, technology, nature, art, travel or film, everything can be an inspiration.” says Markus Denstädt. The young and productive German designer started his journey in furniture design early in his career. His design solutions, whether formally or functionally, are from all areas of life. It is also true of q-bic, one of his early designs for art.collection which was acquired by Haworth.

Denstädt considers his q-bic sofa to be an example of cubist furniture design, which has a simple, comprehensible language of form but still with its own, distinctive character. Specifically, the legs were designed to make a counterpoint against the heavy body, thus the sofa appears to be floating above the ground. Though every detail is elaborate, q-bic is nonetheless committed to result in a timeless and durable product.

In q-bic, explore two different forms interposed together - a strong three-dimensional curved surface on the inside to compress dimensions and concise lines on the outside. You can sink into the curves and feel protected within the hard geometric exterior and safe in the soft, warm inside, says Denstädt.

“Certainly, the rounded edge in the front contributes to ergonomics and prevents pressure against the knees. The design is relatively low in elevation so that the furniture is more communicative. The constant-height seat back and armrest allows users to sit dynamically,” adds Denstädt.

It is classical modernism. Applied to different environments, q-bic changes its interpretation with its surroundings. The restrained and timeless design fits in office facilities as well as private homes. Product is not overly conspicuous so it remains compatible with various styles.

“Designing is the search for optimal and lasting solutions. Always take the aspects of the current, the sensual and the modern into consideration, never the aspect of fashionable style fads,” says Denstädt. He creates his own design interpretation. Whenever he creates, he picks up styles from classical modernism, the 60s and from subsequent decades but he does not overvalue those influences. Instead, functionality, timeliness, sensuality and modernity are the essentials immersed in his design language. Denstädt wants his design to be understandable and comprehensible.

Besides being a successful designer, Denstädt is also big on experiencing life. For inspiration, he likes taking strolls at the endless sandy beaches of Portugal and then settle down to a nice beach-side café with a view to the sea and witness the sun going down.

When asked about his favorite weekend activities, he found it hard to find a simple answer, but came to a poetic conclusion. “To meet whom I like. Eat what I love. Read what captivates me. See what fascinates me. Experience what surprises me.”