Meet the dynamic Shadow Play Collection from Juntos Projects. First displayed in WANTED 2024 at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF), this work reflects upon the warmth and sturdiness that stems from the brand’s name in Spanish, ‘together.’ Pulling on the interplay of light and shadow, the designers are inspired by the provenance of the natural material and the respectful consideration of its use. This collection includes the Raja Chair, the Arc Bench, and the Parallel Desk, three pieces that act in harmony, elevating any space and adding a welcoming touch.
The Arc Bench is defined but not limited by its wavy seat, reminiscent of the form language found strongly throughout Juntos Projects’ work. The chevron detail found at both ends of the bench are an interesting element while also adding to the piece’s overall strength. The gentle peaks and valleys of the waves are designed to welcome bodies of all sizes. Clever use of negative space and engineering blend to form an intriguing composition from all angles.
Similarities in form can be found throughout the collection, the Raja Chair being a prime example. The chair is designed primarily from one singular design element, a piece of wood cut at a highly acute angle. These forms can be seen through the legs, back, and seat of the chair, creating interesting and unexpected interactions with light. At first, the chair looks elegant but unassuming. Upon closer inspection, the detailing and crispness of these intersecting facets are expertly crafted, inviting new views from various vantage points.
The Parallel Desk is a beautiful addition to the Shadow Play Collection, with stately cross-shaped legs that neatly interact with the desktop. There is a landing underneath to store objects below the top to keep things clean and organized on busy days. The designers cite inspiration such as Mies van der Rohe’s cruciform columns for the Barcelona Pavilion in 1929 and Miguel Fiasco’s IBM Office Building in Madrid, influences clear within the language of the collection.
Founders María Daniela Huiza and Abraham Bendheim create furniture and objects that promote self-expression, relaxation, and play. Their commitment to premium materials and the respect of their history is clear in the quality of the collection. The team deftly blends their backgrounds in fine art and architecture while also maintaining a commitment to sustainability in production. This, in practice, means aiming to source as locally as possible. All pieces in the collection are proudly made in the U.S. from premium solid hardwood maple sourced from the Northeast.
Abraham Bendheim and María Daniela Huiza of Juntos Project
The collection was recognized at NYCxDESIGN this year with the Emerging Designer of the Year Award. For more information visit juntosprojects.com, and follow for more updates on Instagram.
Photography by William Jess Laird.
