rakku coffee table

“I designed this table as part of the refurbishing of Les Bains – the historic Parisian nightclub…. One day, while walking past a shop window I saw some cups and bowls made of Raku ceramic. It is an ancient Japanese technique, invented in the 16th century, developed to make special bowls for the tea ceremony: Rakku indicates a very particular and complex firing process, which gives each piece a cracked appearance, with a random pattern, therefore unique. I thought it was a sign, the beginning of a new inspiration…

After some research, I finally found in the south of France Fabienne L'Hostis, an outstanding ceramist and  raku specialist, who was willing to try the complex task of creating some big raku ceramic panels and use them as table tops…

I think I was the first one to do that, now many designers create furniture pieces embellished with Rakku elements… When I think of it, I find myself liking the idea that constraints can set creativity free..."