Softscape Collection 10 year anniversary
Timeless Craftsmanship: The Softscape Collection Celebrates 10 Years of Iconic Australian Design
Ten years ago, Stylecraft exhibited “Softscape”, a collection of seating systems and accessories designed by Helen Kontouris under her brand LEN. The collection features the Softscape Lounge, Softscape Retreat Lounge, Softscape Ottoman, Softscape Stools, Softscape Table, and Softscape Pendant Lamp. Kontouris created the Softscape collection through an 18-month collaboration with Stylecraft, bringing together a group of manufacturers and artisans, such as metal fabricators, glass blowers, timber joiners, and upholsterers, to develop the Australian furniture collection.
Who is Helen Kontouris?
Helen Kontouris is an accomplished designer who has been actively involved in the Australian furniture and design industry for over ten years. She is recognised for her ability to infuse natural and imaginative elements into traditional design concepts. Helen has a unique approach to reimagining conventional ideas, such as chairs and tables, by incorporating fluid and feminine designs that prioritise function and form. Her products have garnered international acclaim, resonating with interior designers, architects, businesses, and individuals seeking to craft visually captivating spaces that cater to the needs and lifestyles of those within.
Helen Kontouris, a two-time Designer of the Year: People’s Choice Awards winner, created the company LEN to showcase her designs, and Softscape was her first release under the brand. The Softscape collection is Australian designed and made, with unrivalled quality and craftsmanship, encompassing an extensive selection of elements, volumes, and rich textures, inviting exploration and intimacy. The company’s mission is to create essential, comfortable, and adaptable pieces of furniture that evoke an emotional response and enrich any space.
Design Inspiration
The Softscape collection was designed to bring a landscape-like furniture experience to indoor environments, taking inspiration from organic elements in landscaping and exterior surroundings. It offers a range of modules, including single chairs, two- and three-person seaters, curved seating, lighting, coat stands, ottomans, tables, and planters. These pieces can be used individually, or combined in various ways to create linear, circular, or curved seating arrangements, giving interior designers and architects flexibility in their designs. Originally intended as a lounge suite with different seating options, the collection expanded based on observations of people’s behaviours and lifestyles. Recognising that people tend to be more creative and efficient in relaxed environments, the design team focused on creating a new way to work, meet, relax, and interact.
What does the collection offer?
The Softscape collection offers flexible seating arrangements that can adapt to the user’s needs, and it incorporates convenient features such as built-in power outlets to enhance functionality. Curved back-to-back setups provide privacy in open work environments, while circular seating arrangements encourage face-to-face communication. Linear placements make efficient use of space in smaller areas, and adding accessories like ottomans and planters adds a softer touch to the overall room design.
The Softscape Retreat features soft walls that create a more intuitive and gentle environment for work, communication, and connection. The collection includes signature accents and colours, such as slim legs that elevate the seating and create an open appearance. The furniture is supported by a robust steel and timber construction, giving it a lighter and more inviting look. A timber plinth further supports each piece, and in single units, the exposed timber plinth edge profile adds a contemporary design element and allows for customisable colour palettes. The plinth can be extended when combined or used individually to create integrated coffee tables and accommodate accessories.
The design team recognised the importance of flexible seating options supporting different positions and providing comfort for extended periods. The collection, from armchairs to full loungers, balances sleek, modern profiles and luxurious comfort. The collection also incorporates a soft and inviting appearance, high-quality stitching, and durable steel frames that offer flexibility and longevity. With approximately 700 possible configurations, Softscape is a modular seating system continuously gaining popularity in commercial and residential spaces. The Softscape collection is a testament to quality Australian furniture and craftsmanship.
To learn more about Softscape, please speak to one of our team members, or contact our distribution partner for Australia at Stylecraft. For all international enquiries, please get in touch with us at info@lenfurniture.com.
