Fringe Bench

This design is part of a larger project for the upgrading of the Molenstraat in Genk (general house style, logo in 3D, green partition, …). The city’s vision was to restore this old shopping street back to its glory, with a particular focus on the crafts. One of the new attractive elements are these Fringe benches (11 pieces) that give the street a new character. These massive oak beams (40 x 40 cm) provide the appearance of purity and tranquility that the street needs. But as you get closer you discover a strong piece of craftsmanship. All benches have an original piece of decor, a fringe. This artisan wood carving consists of flowers, plants, fruit, … even a spell. An old craft unites with a sleek contemporary design in a surprising relationship between the beam and the ornament.

This combination appeals to a very wide audience, the elderly because it is an old technique that they see in a contemporary context, and the young because it is new to them. The benches were therefore made on site by the local woodcarver and, during this process, could count on a lot of attention.