Paolo D'Arrigo's Coral: A Radiator Inspired by Nature's Design

Blending Technology and Nature for Efficient Heating

Paolo D'Arrigo, the designer behind Coral, drew inspiration from the research of generative systems applications. The radiator's design mimics the way corals weld sediments together, creating ever-longer branches. To achieve this, a live physics simulator was used to generate the constant growth of a closed curve while maintaining its continuity. The result is a design with an extremely extended perimeter, offering high thermal output and a distinctive aesthetic.

The Coral radiators are more than just aesthetically pleasing; they are also highly functional. Made entirely of aluminum, these electric radiators can be controlled via a dedicated app, allowing users to set ignition times, heating speed, and temperature. The use of a "Form Finding" approach, which leverages parametric modeling, enabled the creation of this new geometric expression.

The Coral radiators are offered in two formats: a rectangular one measuring 480X50X1480mm that can be installed both vertically and horizontally, and a circular one with an 800mm diameter. Both versions are made from an 8mm thick aluminum sheet, shaped with laser cutting and further processed by a CNC milling machine for the electric heating system.

The design process of Coral was not without its challenges. The main challenge was to "design" the algorithm that would generate the radiator's shape. The goal was to define the longest perimeter possible without compromising the product's aesthetics. The final shape is a balance between function and aesthetics, a testament to the careful calibration of parameters.

Paolo D'Arrigo's Coral is a testament to the power of design and technology in creating functional, aesthetically pleasing products. The radiator, which started as a project in Rome in April 2020 and was completed in Prato in December 2020, has already received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded Silver in the A' Bathroom Furniture and Sanitary Ware Design Award in 2022, a prestigious award given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation.