Artek

Mark McMenamin -- Interior Design, 9/1/2012 2:00:00 AM

Making modern furniture accessible to the masses was the mission of late designer Ilmari Tapiovaara. His Kiki collection, introduced in 1960, emphasized economical profiles, reliant on tubular steel for both structure and stylistic unity. It was an immediate success, claiming gold at that year’s Milan Triennale. The concept of design equality has become increasingly pervasive since then, making these reissues all the more opportune. Black-lacquered steel remains the common thread, framing form-pressed birch plywood in the chair and stool. The bench, lounge chair, and sofa are padded in polyester- wrapped polyurethane foam. Rounding out the series are three tables: square, rectangular, and cocktail. Seating maybe upholstered in fabric or leather, while table tops come in black or white high-pressure plastic laminate or in birch or oak veneer. M2L; m2l.com.