Mark Miller – Forme meets function
In the realm of design, the intersection of form and function is often where magic happens. At Forme this convergence is not just an aspiration but the reality it strives to exist within. With the debut of the Hawthorn collection, visionary industrial designer Mark Miller has pushed the boundaries of traditional office furniture, presenting a line that epitomizes the future-forward ethos of the brand and its alignment with Eclat, in partnership creating innovative and elevated commercial and hospitality experiences that redefine the workspace.
Miller, an established industrial designer currently being showcased by Stylecraft who has worked with some of Melbournes leading designers on many residential joinery projects as well as contributing works to renowned Melbourne hospitality establishments such as Lune, Hazel, Dessous, Kisume, Rock Sugar and Woodsyard among others. With innovation and future-forward functionality at the heart of every piece of furniture, Miller marries traditional construction techniques with technology-driven design to realise each piece to its full potential.
Millers approach to the Hawthorn collection illustrates his deep understanding of the nuanced relationship between space and furniture. By considering not just the utility but also the user, Millers designs elevate everyday interactions with functional objects. This user-centric design process, combined with a robust use of technology for precision and sustainability, marks a significant advancement in furniture design.
Beyond aesthetics and functionality, the Hawthorn collection is a testament to the studios broader goals and a step forward in creating scalable, commercially viable furniture lines that do not just fill spaces but enhances them. With this collection, Forme and Miller have set new benchmarks for what furniture can achieve—turning ordinary environments into extraordinary experiences.
Considering both utility and also the user, elevating everyday interactions with functional objects.
A range of high quality veneers complement sustainably sourced timbers, applied with environmentally friendly stains; granting a bespoke colour palette to the collection. Powder coated steel adds rigidity and strength.
Adorned by a wide range of soft materials and in-house 3D printed hinges. Forme desks and meeting room tables implement overengineered modular power/cable management systems and heavy duty lift columns. These features align perfectly with the needs of modern flexible workspaces that prise flexibility and ergonomic design.
The Forme design philosophy extends beyond the furniture itself to the very spaces these pieces inhabit. The collection was designed in parallel with the interior design of Eclat Hawthorn East, the latter spearheaded by fellow Forme director Jesse Hayes. Modular ceiling panels were created to provide an exceptional ceiling resolution throughout all feature spaces an common areas; with incredible acoustic performance while integrating essential services like lighting and IT infrastructure.
This holistic approach ensures that the furniture not only serves its functional purpose but also contributes to the overall ambiance of the space with an organic correlation to the interiors the pieces inhabit. Extending throughout every element of Eclat Hawthorn East, with joinery, banquette booth seating, book cases and wine display walls; all championing Forme and its ambition to marry form with function.
“Forme is influenced by the furniture production houses in the early 1920s, inspired by an era where society was rapidly evolving and the greatest designers weren’t referencing the time they lived in, but designing for the future they saw approaching.” – Mark Miller
A combination of organic, instinct-based design and computer programming to polish and perfect each piece.
Miller celebrates variety and geolocation, referencing cultural identity and championing a broad range of styles, languages and influences. Finding an exciting intersection between traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technological advancement that fosters continuous innovation. With functional, high-quality designs that have never been seen before. Leveraging an intimate knowledge of custom furniture and working to the specific needs of a client – taking into account not only the furniture’s use, but also its user – Miller applies a combination of organic, instinct-based design and computer programming to polish and perfect each piece.
As with all forms of fabrication, furniture design is an industry where environmental impact is a significant factor. As well as its ability to constantly push design forward, the integration of technology into Forme processes allows the team to strive toward greater environmental efficiency. Using these same programs, Forme is able to meticulously map out each piece of a design in order to make the best use of timber and minimise material waste. With plans to continuously refine these environmentally conscious practices as Forme grows, the design house aims to evolve the way fabrication coexists with the world around us.
With the expert craft and vison of Mark Miller, Forme exists as a central pillar of the broader Eclat framework. A component of a unique design language that aligns with the practicality and durability needed in office settings, while also embracing the warmth and aesthetics of residential environments. This process of in-house creation enables bespoke furniture and joinery collections for individual Eclat sites, each with a local flavour. A thoughtful blend of sculptural form and scalable function.
Image Credits
Lilly Thompson & Peter Soulis
