Interview with The Designer: Model 12
With the newly launched Model 12 here and making itself comfortable in people's homes, we sat down with designer, Beck, to understand what we were trying to achieve with the Model 12 and how we were able to bring this idea to life.
Was there a particular lifestyle or user in mind when designing Model 12?
Beck: Definitely, someone who has lots of visitors. There’s so much storage in the bases of Model 12, there’s space to store our small double mattress topper, pillows, and a duvet meaning surprise sleepovers are no issue.
Can you walk us through the sofa-to-bed transformation mechanism?
Beck: The 2-seater module seat lifts out easily (even with a single hand) and lands in-line with the end of the chaise. This is where you’ll find some secret storage.
Then, the 2-seater module backrest lowers down into bed position. Be sure to grab the handle when lowering the backrest, it makes it much easier to return to the sofa position later.
The chaise backrest will remain in place, but it’s a perfect spot for a book and your glasses. For those built with extra long legs, the armrests can be temporarily removed so you can still stretch your toes.
The Model 12 includes under-chaise storage – what considerations went into designing this feature?
Beck: We wanted to make sure everything could fit, so the topper fits in when folded. There’s also some small vents inside for aeration.
What were the biggest challenges in integrating storage and a bed function without compromising aesthetics?
Beck: Sofa beds and storage usually mean a very square and hard looking sofa. We prototyped a few times to get the softness looking right, adding extra curves and padding where we could. We also played with the leg height and storage height — two things that fight each other. In the end we found enough storage, but not so much that the sofa looks bulky with little stubby legs.
What makes this sofa bed comfortable both as a sofa and a bed?
Beck: The sofa is ergonomically friendly, suiting most peoples body types when sitting, especially given the option to use a lumbar cushion or to move it to the side by the armrest. The seat is a mid-firm feel, perfect for sleep, and the back cushions are filled with soft fibres meaning it’s perfect for sitting back in to for a good film.
Are there any aspects of this model that you’re especially proud of?
Beck: This is our first sofa we’ve created with a Modern European style, which is typically a very sleek and simple look. Pair this with it’s functional use of a storage sofa bed — the odds were stacked against it. It’s amazing that it’s not blocky and undesirable, in fact I think it’s a stunner.
Like what you see? Take a look at the Model 12 in all its glory here.
