Get ready to be swept off your feet by the latest collaboration that's taking the design world by storm! MADE, a renowned homeware brand, has teamed up with London's iconic Barbican estate, resulting in a furniture collection that's an absolute dream for mid-century enthusiasts and design aficionados alike. This partnership is a match made in heaven, bringing together the best of both worlds and creating a range that's not only visually stunning but also steeped in historical inspiration.
The Power of Collaboration
When two iconic entities come together, magic happens. And that's precisely what we're witnessing with the MADE x Barbican collection. The Barbican, with its distinct brutalist architecture and a rich history dating back to the 1960s and 70s, serves as the perfect muse for MADE's design team. The result? A collection that pays homage to the past while remaining incredibly relevant and stylish in the present day.
The Star of the Show: Plinth Coffee Table
One piece that truly stands out is the Plinth Coffee Table. With a price tag of £379, this modular masterpiece is a versatile addition to any living space. Inspired by the Barbican's unique architecture, from its seating pods to its curved roofs, the table's design allows for flexibility and adaptability. Beatriz Nuno, MADE's head of design, explains, "The flexibility of the design was important to us, so it could adapt to different spaces, rather than being fixed to one way of being used."
A Mid-Century Aesthetic with a Modern Twist
The entire collection draws inspiration from both the exterior and interiors of the Barbican, resulting in a cohesive mid-century aesthetic. The color palette is a delightful blend of retro and contemporary, featuring shades like baby blue, butter yellow, dark olive green, deep burgundy, and brown, paired with dark wood and chrome accents. Beatriz elaborates, "Our ambition was to create a palette inspired by the past but refreshed for contemporary living."
Top Picks from the Collection
- Curve Chrome and Red Table Lamp: Reminiscent of Scandi design, this lamp combines a chrome base with a burgundy shade, adding a pop of color to any room.
- Dual Olive Velvet Accent Chair: With its unique geometric armrests and dark wood legs, this chair embodies mid-century design at its finest.
- Plinth Yellow Gloss and Oak Oval Fixed 6 Seater Dining Table: A stylish dining table with a lacquered base in butter yellow, offering a high-end look at an affordable price.
- Avalon 3-Seater Sofa: An existing MADE sofa, now upholstered in burgundy jacquard fabric inspired by the Barbican balconies.
- Balcony Cushion: Featuring the iconic Barbican balcony motif, this cushion adds texture and color to any space.
- Coffer Wood Wall Light: A sophisticated wooden light fixture with a square frame and a glass diffuser, available as a wall light or ceiling light.
Beyond the Barbican Collection
MADE continues to impress with its new releases. Some of my favorite recent additions include the Hadlo Pure Cotton Curtains, the Morven Pure Cotton Cushion, and the Finnur Pure Cotton Bedding Set, all of which offer a perfect blend of style and quality.
Final Thoughts
The MADE x Barbican collection is a testament to the power of design collaboration. It not only celebrates the rich history of the Barbican but also offers a fresh and modern take on mid-century style. With its versatile pieces and unique color palette, this collection is sure to leave a lasting impression and become a beloved addition to many homes. So, are you ready to indulge in a piece of design history? Which items from the collection have caught your eye?
