9 buys that prove why latex is the latest fetish for homes
Emerging as one of design’s most exciting materials, latex is defying its fetish associations and entering the mainstream
Known for its supple, second-skin-like quality, latex is being heralded as a viable alternative to leather and plastic. Harvested by tapping the bark of the rubber tree to draw out its liquid sap over several hours, natural latex is plant-based and biodegradable, but the time-intensive process means pieces are often one-off or bespoke.
‘Ekran’ screen, Marsha Golemac
Creative director Marsha Golemac chose to use latex for this simple stainless-steel screen to further her investigation into the boundaries between utility and allure. While screens are traditionally designed to provide privacy, Golemac’s use of the semi-transparent latex lets her play with visibility, while users can create interesting silhouettes behind the material. From £3,500, marshagolemac.com
‘Ghost’ lamp, Natalie Tischler
New York-based multidisciplinary artist Natalie Tischler hooked natural latex sheeting through fish hooks to connect it to this lamp’s metal frame. Interest is created through the contrast between the supple, organic material and the cold, hard metal. Approx £1,470, pictureroom.shop
‘Latex, latex, latex’ chair, Mai Rodtnes
Part of Mai Rodtnes’s Design Academy Eindhoven graduation project, this chair explores latex’s versatility. According to Rodtnes, latex is most closely associated with fetish and fashion, but it has many applications in furniture design. £1,450, mairodtnes.com
‘Subdermal II’ pendant, Studio S II
If this pendant light makes you feel uncomfortable, its designers have done something right. The entire collection references the human body hanging from hooks, highlighting latex’s skin-like feel. £3,120, studiosii.com
‘Milk’ bench and latex blanket, Kate Greenberg
What makes the ‘Milk’ bench so iconic is the hand-cast pure natural latex throw that comes with it. Taking the shape of the cross-section of a milled tree, the blanket serves as a cheeky accent point and turns the bench from something purely utilitarian into a work of art. £3,600 for both, kategreenberg.studio
Latex bag, Climax Books
Known to sell out quickly, this latex bag has become something of a cult status symbol akin to the omnipresent Trader Joe’s tote. It’s handmade in the UK and reflects Climax’s signature flirty brand ethos (the London bookshop even features latex seating). £150, climaxbooks.com
‘Senza Titolo’ stool by Beatrice Bonino
You can clearly see the nails that hold this functional stool by emerging designer Beatrice Bonino together, giving it a punky, industrial look perfect for modern interiors. Price on application, jacquelinesullivangallery.com
‘Cortina’ lamp, Nazara Lázaro
Berlin-based designer Nazara Lázaro’s ‘Cortina’ lamp features a white latex sheet in place of a shade, while stainless steel was used for the slender leg. The sculptural object makes just as big a statement when the light is switched on as it does off. £1,040, nazaralazaro.com
‘Tremella’ armchair, Office of Ziyu He
If you needed any more proof that latex needn’t be confined to the world of erotica, then let us introduce you to the ‘Tremella’ armchair. Part ethereal, part whimsical, the seat is a feminine take on the material. £26,500, office.ziyuhe.co
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