Dharma: A Bookshelf Inspired by Nature

Modularity and Organic Design Combine in Alessandra Meacci's Creation

Dharma is a unique bookshelf that hangs from a wireframe structure and features hexagonal modules in various colors and materials. These modules can be assembled to create a customized composition, with a succession of empty and full spaces. The design also incorporates a "green" vocation, as it is meant to accommodate climbing plants among the modules, creating a soft division and allowing light to pass through the spaces.

The main structure of Dharma is made from black powder-coated iron rods. The three-dimensional hexagonal modules are fixed onto the structure, with seven modules made from lacquered wood in green and yellow, and four modules made from black powder-coated iron rods. Additionally, a wooden shelf, crafted from a section of an olive tree trunk, adds a natural touch to the design.

With dimensions of 1270mm in width, 620mm in depth, and 2400mm in height, Dharma is a functional and visually striking bookshelf that combines art, design, and nature.

Dharma's interaction with its surroundings is what truly sets it apart. The bookshelf's "green" heart allows users to customize it by growing climbing plants on its structure, among the wood modules. This gives the object a living quality, as it can be shaped and cared for day by day. The choice of plants, how they climb the iron rod structure, and the overall care taken with them contribute to the unique character of Dharma.

The project for Dharma began in January 2015 in Padua and was completed in April 2015 in Milan. It was showcased at the Salone Satellite during the Salone del Mobile in April 2015, where it garnered attention for its innovative design and integration of nature.

Alessandra Meacci's research for this project focused on finding a three-dimensional module that would recall a recurring form in nature while also being easy to join with others to create compositions in space. The module needed to be versatile, able to be realized with different technologies and materials such as wood and iron rods, and most importantly, it had to be functional for book storage.

Overcoming creative, technical, and research challenges, Meacci collaborated with a blacksmith and a woodworker to develop the shape of the modules. The aim was to create a form that was visually appealing and easy to reproduce. Additionally, accessories were created to ensure the functionality of the beehive cell shape, which lacked a horizontal support plane.

Dharma's design is protected by copyright, belonging to Alessandra Meacci. In recognition of its outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, Dharma was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2016. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contribute to quality of life improvements, and make the world a better place.