The mechanics of theaters and places of entertainment remain largely unchanged since the invention of the amphitheater, some four thousand years ago. The specific pitch of the seats and shell behind the performers enhance the projection of the voices and music on stage, allowing thousands of people to hear a singular note. The Arkhe Collection by Studio Kali is heavily inspired by Aegean architecture, especially amphitheaters and spaces of gathering. The round and welcoming forms of coming together from so long ago are imprinted on the travertine bodies of these tables. The collection features a mirror as well, reflecting back to times long past.
“Arkhe collection is a tribute to these magical ruins of my childhood memories and to all the history, culture, and myths they whisper to our collective consciousness,” says the designer, reminiscing upon childhood summers visiting these archaeological sites. These larger-than-life structures dominate our histories together on this planet, looming as titanic reminders of where we previously took root.
The Arkhe Collection includes coffee tables, console tables, and a mirror, which add a certain familiarity to the space. Pulling on centuries of tradition, they serve to elevate and refine any interior. Endlessly customizable, the studio offers many different options to fit a multitude of client needs.
The naturally textured, unfinished travertine pays homage to the ancient stages of thespians long gone. The inclined surface is intended to store books and magazines, while the flat surface can hold vases, candles, and cups. These surfaces are honed out of singular blocks of stone, speaking to the expert level of craftsmanship and care applied to the material.
Our ancestors valued materials for their quality over time, much unlike some of our more modern inclinations. Travertine was (and still is) a hugely popular building material in the ancient world, because of its strong structure and high porosity. This gives it good thermal and insulating properties, and has a beautiful texture as well. Standing up well to a good polish, this collection will just get better with use and time, much like the ancient structures it takes inspiration from.
Energized by the breathtaking amphitheaters of the Mediterranean, founder Fulden Topaloğlu, Ph.D., has always been drawn to theatrical elements of life. The name Studio Kali stems from the muse of poetry and eloquence Kaliope, chief of the muses in Greek mythology.
The studio speaks of their ethos, “We are driven by the idea that creativity, determination, and a passion for what you do are the key ingredients of everything that gives us inspiration in life… And most of all, that inspiration is sacred.”
To learn more about Studio Kali and the Arkhe Collection, click here. To follow for updates on Instagram, click here.
