British designer Benjamin Hubert has teamed up with surface specialist Cosentino to create a large architectural installation for Milan Design Week 2019. Created through his studio LAYER, “Raytrace” features a 25-meter long and 6-meter high triangular passage seemingly balanced on a single edge within a dark, atmospheric space.
Upon entering the passageway, a fascinating caustic pattern slowly dances across the surface, emulating the refraction of light through water – conjuring the peacefull feeling of being underwater. As visitors walk through, they become an integral part of the installation, their shadows cast against the structure’s surface.
Two mirrors at either end of the vault reflect the installation, creating the illusion of an infinite space and offering glimpses of patterns playing out on the interior.
Mirrors at either end of the vault will create the illusion of an infinite space. Seating also made of dekton will de displayed just outside the space, allowing time for visitors to stop and reflect.
The installation uses Cosentino‘s dekton® surface, an ultracompact material made up of over 20 natural minerals. Hubert’s design reference its technological qualities and production methods to create a dramatic, interactive experience showcasing the harmony between nature, light and architecture.
Raytrace is a visually powerful demonstration of how Cosentino products can be used as architectural elements and interior designs.
“The creation of dekton® is a highly technological process that emulates the metamorphic changes that naturally occur with stone,” says Benjamin Hubert, founder of LAYER. “The extraction of water using extreme heat and pressure throughout the manufacturing process is what makes dekton® a durable material most suited for architecture.”
“Raytrace is a direct response to this method – we take the idea of water and architecture, two integral themes in the conception of dekton®, and create an architectural structure, filled with an immersive caustic lighting effect – a powerful combination of architecture and nature.”
Dekton is a large-format, ultra-compact surface that consists of a sophisticated blend of the raw materials that produce the very latest in glass and porcelain as well as the highest quality quartz.
Raytrace will be exhibited in the historical vaulted warehouses beneath Milan’s central train station as part of the third edition of Ventura Centrale. The unique backdrop of these arched spaces will house installations by internationally renowned brands and designers, making it a must-see destination during Milan Design Week 2019.
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