Minus 13, Desk

A Minimalist Desk Design by Raza Ali Dada

The Minus 13, Desk is a unique and minimalist design by Raza Ali Dada. The designer's inspiration for this desk comes from the concept of minimalism, which is integral to his attitude towards life in today's information overload. Dada believes that excessive information and images can distract us from appreciating the investigative and inspirational elements of everyday objects.

What sets the Minus 13, Desk apart is its honest purpose and simplicity. The design focuses on providing a surface for two functions, expressed through the division created by a single leg or support. To maximize this intent, all other legs are removed, resulting in a singular element that serves its purpose effectively. The geometry and minimal form of the desk are a direct result of its intent and purpose.

The Minus 13, Desk is made using basic technology, utilizing materials such as MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) and glass. The desk's technical specifications include dimensions of 1524 mm x 609 mm x 762 mm, MDF construction with adhesive, a Duco paint finish, matte lacquer, tempered glass with stainless steel hardware, and PVC clips.

This contemporary desk is designed to remain simple and honest in its form. While it does not transform, it takes on an overall shape when used as a desk and adapts to various tasks performed on its surface. Its form and its relationship to the user's needs are of utmost importance, rather than its performance.

The Minus 13, Desk was created in Lahore, Pakistan, within a timeframe of two weeks, including the design and production process. It is part of a larger journey for Raza Ali Dada, where he aims to simplify objects and satisfy needs that may only be realized after encountering them. The desk is a result of research and experimentation with minimal but meaningful interventions into our daily lives.

Overcoming creative, technical, and research challenges, Dada has successfully created a desk that balances self-motivated goals with the response and reaction of users. The design process involves extracting creative solutions from constraints such as time and budget, turning them into positive elements of design. The Minus 13, Desk aims to satisfy users, especially those who demand custom objects.

The final object is a testament to the designer's pursuit of clarity through simple design concepts. It is bold and simple, yet it manages to add interest through its purity and silence. The desk's balance and composition, achieved through sensitive proportions, simple construction methods, and delicate details, leave a lasting impression beyond its visual impact.

The Minus 13, Desk is a winner of the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2015. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The desk is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, and contributing to a better world.