The authenticity of the material and craftsmanship in the spotlight

Oberflex and Concrete LCDA gave the design duo Normal Studio free rein to create an original and immersive scenography, highlighting the authenticity of materials and artisanal craftsmanship. The exhibition, "Craft, the Hand's Trace," took place at the Ober Material Library on June 27th.

"Craft" serves as a reminder that behind every creation, there is a person, artisanal expertise, and a human connection.

Through this intimate exhibition showcasing raw materials, visitors were invited to explore a selection of decorative panels made of wood, metal, or concrete, via a contemplative and playful journey that highlighted the captivating craftsmanship of both companies.

We asked Normal Studio five questions about the conception of the exhibition and how they succeeded in showcasing the beauty of these materials.

Why this theme, "Craft, the Hand's Trace"?

Among all the products from the Ober group, there are multiple approaches, and it was a relevant choice to focus on products shaped by human hands. The companies in the group have a very manufacturing-oriented expertise, and we wanted to emphasize this idea—the importance of material, authenticity, and the beauty of the craft.

The choice of material and the notion of craftsmanship are increasingly valued in interior design. What’s your take on this?

This notion has always existed to some extent, though there is a growing desire to remain true to materials. It reflects an attraction to raw materials that are delicately transformed, to genuine materials with incredible qualities, like wood and concrete. The process of transformation is fascinating.

How did you manage to bring together two brands with distinct identities and products into one scenography?

Concrete LCDA and Oberflex are two brands with different skills, but both possess manual craftsmanship. So, it was easy to unite them around the same values while maintaining the logic of showcasing them together. On the contrary, the two brands are very compatible with each other. Their techniques speak of a gesture, of the hand.

How did the venue inspire you? What constraints did you face?

The venue felt natural to us. We didn’t want to display samples, but full-scale panels so visitors could fully immerse themselves, which is why we chose large, full-height samples. The Ober Material Library is a well-recognized space for designers and is well-suited for showcasing materials. We wanted to reveal what lies behind the manufacturing process.

You were present at the exhibition; how did you perceive the visitors' experience?

There was a lot of curiosity. Visitors were surprised to see the behind-the-scenes of the materials and eager to discover the products on a different scale, offering a new perspective on Ober’s material history. Designers and architects appreciate seeing how things are made. It’s a way of reconnecting with technique and the beauty of craftsmanship.