The chair
Beech wood, steel wire, wool pillows
Inspired by traditional Mazovian woodwork.
The seat is constructed entirely using mechanical wooden joints, without the use of glue.
The padded pillow backrest is fitted by slipping it over a steel wire frame.
This approach allows it to be easily removed for cleaning, eliminating the need for any internal mechanisms.
This approach allows it to be easily removed for cleaning, eliminating the need for any internal mechanisms.
The stool
Beech wood, wool pillow
Inspired by traditional Mazovian woodwork.
The seat is constructed entirely using mechanical wooden joints, without the use of glue.
The cabinet
Beech wood
Inspired by traditional Mazovian woodwork.
The cabinet is constructed using only mechanical wooden joints and secured with wedges, without the use of glue.
RESEARCH
The Mava collection represents a thorough exploration of wooden furniture produced in Mazovia, the central region of Poland.
Folk culture is historically regional and has long varied from town to town. Over time, different parts of Poland developed distinct strengths in craft, particularly in weaving, architecture, metalwork, and woodworking.
Prior to the design process, extensive research was undertaken. This included studying historical papers, books, and archival catalogues, as well as engaging with historians and exploring ethnographic museums and their collections throughout Mazovia.
The aim of the project was not to replicate traditional folk craft, but to draw inspiration from authentic historical references and reinterpret them within a contemporary context—contributing to the preservation of Polish design culture.
CONSTRUCTION
The furniture is crafted from solid beech wood. Its construction employs traditional Mazovian techniques and mechanical joints designed to function without the use of glue.
This approach presented a significant challenge during the making process, as solid wood is not only heavy but also susceptible to bending and movement due to changes in humidity. However, through careful precision and patience, the result is a highly durable piece of furniture.
TEXTILES
Traditional folk weavers were collaborated with to create the fabrics. During conversations with them, it came up that there are no formal rules or guidelines followed when selecting colours for their characteristic striped designs. All are crafted entirely by intuition and visual judgment.
Rather than imposing a predefined design, a primary colour was selected, and the weavers were invited to develop their own compositions for the striped detailing.
COLOURS
Polish folk art and craft are distinguished by their striking, and at times contrasting, use of colour. Capturing this playful quality was an important aspect of the design.
A range of water-based wood stains was used and carefully mixed to achieve unique, vivid, expressive tones.
designed and created by Marta Sowińska and Monika Żaczkiewicz
