MONO Editions’ latest collaboration with Corpus Studio, the Platane collection, is an homage to simplicity, materiality, and the art of construction. This is MONO Editions’ third furniture series following its collaborations with Papierre and Liège in 2022. Born out of a meticulous process by the Paris-based studio, the collection taps into both the past and present, creating pieces that feel refined yet rooted in time-honored techniques.
With its sharp lines and soft curves, each piece is a testament to the power of modularity. Wooden slabs, each cut to a standardized thickness resulting in a cohesive visual identity, form the core of this collection, whether stacked, compressed, or cantilevered to create striking silhouettes. The result? A collection that feels both sculptural and functional – perfectly designed for those who want to add a bit of edge to their spaces without sacrificing comfort, usability, or ergonomics.
Each piece is made out of plane wood, a thoughtful choice made for its deep ties to French history. Once mass-planted by Napoleon, plane trees are now a symbol of French landscapes, from bustling Parisian boulevards to sleepy provincial roads. Sadly, due to a spreading canker disease, many of these trees have fallen, but the Platane collection is an opportunity for the wood to have a second life. The wood’s mottled, organic grain makes each piece in the collection a one-of-a-kind. The rugged texture stands in contrast to the sleek, minimalist design, adding richness, depth, and character.
The collection is also as historic as it is forward-thinking, drawing subtle inspiration from the past, including the Swedish Grace movement (reminiscent of Art Deco) and the elemental lines of ancient architecture. There’s even a hint of Brutalism, with references to Paul Virilio’s stark yet evocative photography in Bunker Archeology. The combination of these influences makes the collection so visually arresting. Each chair, table, and lighting element is carefully designed to highlight its construction, embracing the tension between materials.
Blending rich historical references with a contemporary edge, the Platane collection from MONO Editions and Corpus Studio is a masterclass in timeless design and a reminder that referencing the past allows us to innovate for the future.
To learn more about the Platane collection, visit mono–editions.com.
Photography by Mathilde Hiley.
