Oceania: A Masterpiece of Australian-Inspired Design

Simon Haeser's Award-Winning Couch Reflects Australia's Coastal Landscape

Haeser's inspiration for Oceania came from his experiences of Australia’s stunning coastlines. The forms, shapes, and colours of the landscape and culture influenced the design of the couch. The result is a piece of furniture that is not only functional but also a work of art that brings a piece of Australia into the living space.

The unique properties of Oceania lie in its clean lines and flowing curves, designed to embrace and comfort. Suitable for sophisticated commercial interiors, it can also enhance the living space of design enthusiasts. The visual language of the project expresses Haeser’s interpretation of Australian-inspired design, communicating a sense of the country's coastal beauty to those who interact with it.

Oceania was realized using a variety of materials including laminated MDF, blackbutt veneer, powder-coated mild steel, and acrylic painted edges. The fabric used is suitable for general domestic use. The prototype was developed over a period of five months and is currently exhibited with renowned Western Australian design retailer, Ultimo Interiors.

The design process for Oceania was a journey of exploration and investigation into the concept of Australian Design Identity. Haeser faced the challenge of designing a piece of contemporary furniture that reflected human and material responses to the environment, culture, values, and needs. The final product is an expression of Haeser’s ideas and approach to design in response to this question.

Oceania’s recognition as the Golden A' Furniture Design Award winner in 2019 is a testament to Haeser's prodigious talent and wisdom. It is a venerated product and bright idea that advances art, science, design, and technology, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with its desirable characteristics.