Forestalgia Creates Furniture For "More Than Dining"

London-based studio Forestalgia has launched a modular furniture system that is designed to create a sense of community.Named "Modular 001", the collection is made up of a set of seats that slot into niches around a glass-topped table. The table has been shaped to form the Forestalgia logo, and incorporates a central "soul" component that includes a mood light and speaker.In terms of inspiration, Forestalgia founder Emmanuel Lawal looked to the design of traditional Japanese chabudai and horigotatsu designs – both of which are short-legged tables that sit low to the ground, the latter typically featuring a recessed floor for legroom.To create the seating and table, high-quality plywood was upholstered with foam and then vegan suede in a tobacco-toned yellow hue, "in homage to Forestalgia’s love for African mid-century modern furniture," the studio adds.By creating a furniture system that is moveable, while also eschewing archetypal shapes, Lawal wanted to encourage an informal setting for connection, and was partially prompted by the quote: "don’t expect a seat, if you don’t bring anything to the table"."Although not directed at me, these words had a profound effect on me that made me briefly relive the feeling of adolescence," Lawal said. "Growing up in Greenwich, south-east London, it was easy to feel alienated from the arts scene, with little to no entry points to connect with creative enthusiasts.""To mark Forestalgia’s first independent product offering, we have designed and produced Modular 001 to highlight the importance of multi-functional, comfortable, and inviting environments within social spaces. With Forestalgia, you have a seat at the table. We all have to start somewhere."Modular 001 is available to order via the Forestalgia website, and comes in an array of color options.Click here to view full gallery at Hypebeast

Apr 16, 2025 - 17:18
 0
Forestalgia Creates Furniture For "More Than Dining"

London-based studio Forestalgia has launched a modular furniture system that is designed to create a sense of community.

Named "Modular 001", the collection is made up of a set of seats that slot into niches around a glass-topped table. The table has been shaped to form the Forestalgia logo, and incorporates a central "soul" component that includes a mood light and speaker.

In terms of inspiration, Forestalgia founder Emmanuel Lawal looked to the design of traditional Japanese chabudai and horigotatsu designs – both of which are short-legged tables that sit low to the ground, the latter typically featuring a recessed floor for legroom.

To create the seating and table, high-quality plywood was upholstered with foam and then vegan suede in a tobacco-toned yellow hue, "in homage to Forestalgia’s love for African mid-century modern furniture," the studio adds.

Forestalgia is Creating Furniture
Forestalgia is Creating Furniture
Forestalgia is Creating Furniture
Forestalgia is Creating Furniture
Forestalgia is Creating Furniture

By creating a furniture system that is moveable, while also eschewing archetypal shapes, Lawal wanted to encourage an informal setting for connection, and was partially prompted by the quote: "don’t expect a seat, if you don’t bring anything to the table".

"Although not directed at me, these words had a profound effect on me that made me briefly relive the feeling of adolescence," Lawal said. "Growing up in Greenwich, south-east London, it was easy to feel alienated from the arts scene, with little to no entry points to connect with creative enthusiasts."

"To mark Forestalgia’s first independent product offering, we have designed and produced Modular 001 to highlight the importance of multi-functional, comfortable, and inviting environments within social spaces. With Forestalgia, you have a seat at the table. We all have to start somewhere."

Modular 001 is available to order via the Forestalgia website, and comes in an array of color options.

Click here to view full gallery at Hypebeast