Black Labyrinth: A Fusion of Art and Functionality

Eckhard Beger's Award-Winning Design Merges Bauhaus Style with Asian Inspiration

The Black Labyrinth is not your ordinary chest of drawers. With its 15 vertical drawers and rotating compartments, it is a functional piece of art designed to store documents and smaller items. Its dark architectural appearance is contrasted by light marquetry rays originating from three focal points, adding an aesthetic tension to the creation. The intriguing conception and mechanism of the drawers complement the understated outline of the piece.

Beger's design is a masterful blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. The structure of the Black Labyrinth is made from multilayer wood covered with black dyed ebony veneer, while the marquetry rays are made from flamed maple. The veneer is oiled to achieve a satin-like appearance, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the piece.

The design process of the Black Labyrinth was not without its challenges. The layout of the bright marquetry lines, for instance, required careful consideration. From the front perspective, rays depart from three foci to cover the face. By mirroring the layout on the other faces, Beger was able to maintain a constant width of marquetry lines, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process.

Another challenge was the installation of the extension mechanisms for the vertical drawers. Beger's objective was to make them as invisible as possible. By using brush seals, he was able to achieve this, further enhancing the sleek and clean appearance of the Black Labyrinth.

The Black Labyrinth is not just a piece of furniture; it is a testament to Beger's creativity and innovation in design. It is a functional piece of art that draws its inspiration from different cultures and design styles, resulting in a unique and aesthetically pleasing creation. This design was recognized for its excellence, winning the Golden A' Fine Arts and Art Installation Design Award in 2018.

In conclusion, the Black Labyrinth is a perfect example of how art, architecture, design, innovation, and technology can come together to create something truly unique and functional. It is a testament to Beger's creativity and skill, and a symbol of the endless possibilities in design.