Segregate
A work in progress of discussing spatial boundaries
Segregate is an installation that challenges the common perception of flooring, transforming flat woven surfaces into a three-dimensional sanctuary.
2017
Domaine de Boisbuchet
Individual Project
during 'Down to Earth' workshop
by Pierre Favresse
Duration: 1 week
Researching the meaning of intimacy and privacy through redefining flooring
Traditionally, the floor has been perceived as a neutral medium, serving the functional purpose of bearing support. However, it also forms our intimate boundaries through sensory contrasts.
From the cold, exposed bathroom tile to a warm, inviting living room wooden plank, the floor already dictates our routine behaviours involuntarily.
The Material
Bolon is a pioneer in creating aesthetically pleasing, durable and sustainable woven flooring made from recycled material. The sophisticated material marries eclectic patterns and tactile warmth with structural durability, creating a unique yet vivid medium that responds dynamically to both light and human touch.
The project was developed in collaboration with Bolon as part of an initiative to explore new possibilities for their material, which was generously provided for the workshop.
The Inspiration
The concept lays its foundation in 'Nature Room' led by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto at Domaine de Boisbuchet where participants installed numerous frames throughout the estate to explore the idea of intimacy within openness.
One particular door frame placed near the river's edge, dividing the uncovered grassland from the densely-covered riverbank instantly became the focal point of my observation and resonated deeply with my approach to flooring — separation.
The Experience
The installation is constructed from a timber framework, coupled with two contrasting colours of woven Bolon flooring that were transformed from flat surfaces into meaningful, three-dimensional forms, dividing the frame into three distinct partitions centred around the motif of privacy and intimacy.
When entering, a narrow, uneasy incline with the rough, industrial underside of Bolon welcomes the visitor, conveying a guarded boundary.
Once stepping onto the slope, the material unfolds into a space with vivid colours and visual openness, representing private moments.
Finally, the visitor passes through a door-implied, red-painted frame to find the flooring transitioned into a soft, embracing swinging chair, evoking intimacy.
*The construction and presentation process was moved indoors due to unstable weather conditions
Intended to be placed on the edge of waterfront in the estate, the entrance of Segregate faces the historic, man-made architecture to contrast with the raw natural landscape framed by the swing chair, echoing the 'intimacy within openness' ideology by Sou Fujimoto.
Behind the Scenes
