The 15th-century German artist Albrecht Dürer once proclaimed geometry as the “right foundation of all painting”. What he meant, in essence, is that shapes, forms and patterns are the primary building blocks of all things aesthetic, serving as a scaffolding upon which everything else is layered.

Six hundred years on, that same philosophy still rings true. Some of the most iconic designs of our time can be recognised by silhouette alone: think the Empire State Building in New York, or, closer to home, the Merlion.

When it comes to interior design, geometry plays a crucial role in setting the tone of a space. Straight lines make for a sleeker appearance, while gentler curves create a softer vibe.

Whatever the desired look may be, having unique forms that play with geometry can turn furniture into veritable pieces of art. At this year’s Milan Design Week, brands showcased homewares that are not only functional, but also double up as statement pieces with their unexpected silhouettes.

For those looking beyond paintings and sculptures to jazz up their homes, here are some of our favourite shapely pieces, from sofas to lamps and everything in between.

Andreu World

The Valencia Stool, named for the birthplace of Spanish label Andreu World, is 3D-printed with a blend of cork and polylactic acid, a material commonly used in biodegradable bottles. Its design, meant to evoke traditional woven Mediterranean baskets, feels fluid and relaxed.

The stool was created to help raise funds for those affected in the October 2024 “DANA” floods that hit Valencia. (Over 200 died, and some 15,000 were displaced from their homes.)

“Its design is deeply inspired by the emotional and physical impact of this natural disaster,” says designer Patricia Urquiola. Its “deformed appearance”, she adds, evokes the adversity faced by those affected, while its interwoven texture reflects a sense of togetherness.

Moroso

Expanding on the look and style of Moroso’s Gruuve line, the Gruuvelot sofa is a creation by Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola, whose work pushes the limits of design with unexpected elements.

With a mishmash of curves, the Gruuvelot has a distinctive 1970s quality about it, with a form that gives the impression of being in constant motion. The piece is also modular, meaning sections can be moved around to fit different spaces.

Also of note is the upholstery covering the Gruuvelot. Extending the theme of fluidity, the fabric is created with a water-based printing technique that requires 90% less water and emits 80% fewer greenhouse gases than conventional techniques.

Santa & Cole

The La Bella Durmiente is a new edition of a 1986 creation by Santa & Cole co-founders Gabriel Ordeig Cole and Nina Masó. This standing lamp zooms in on minimalist art, geometry and design, with its columnar figure, deliberate use of only squares and rectangles, and alternating warm-and-cold tones.

The lampshade is made with printed specialty paper, protected from moisture and deterioration by a layer of transparent laminate; in other words, it’s Singapore-climate-proof. Black-lacquered wood caps complete the look.

Glas Italia

Conceived by Cypriot designer Michael Anastassiades, the Kazimir Shelf is made up of layered sheets of tempered green and acid-etched double-sided glass, fixed together with a UV bonding technique, forming sleek, sculptural angles. Available in six sizes, the shelves can be hung upright or upside down.

The Kazimir Shelf is part of a collection that also comprises a console and a low table, both produced in a similar fashion using tempered green and acid-etched double-sided glass.

Alias

The Zeta Stool simplifies geometry to its core, exploring the dynamics between horizontal and oblique lines. Two diagonal columns cut across the stool’s Z-shaped body, providing additional support and balance while adding depth to its look.

The stool is available in three colourways: the first is monochrome; the second is black, light grey and brown; and the third “MB” tricoloured edition combines black, light grey and yellow for a little visual pop.

Sancal

Inspired by meerkats and how they sit upright to scan their surroundings (“suricata” is the Spanish name for the minuscule mammal), this all-in-one desk and stool is meant to promote active sitting, which engages core muscles to achieve healthier posture.

Using a combination of simple shapes, the Suricata has been crafted as a versatile, multi-setting piece of furniture. Use it alone as a miniature study desk for those remote-work days, or pair a few to create a comfortable, colourful setting.

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