Argo

Argo – a star is born : a birth bed that combines copper with walnut wood to protect the child from electromagnetic waves. When closed, it forms a breathing cell that filters light and electromagnetic waves (WiFi, GSM…). Like the mythological vessel of Jason and the Argonauts, it is a protective case and a reassuring shelter. Argo is the result of a close collaboration between the cabinetmakers from the Atelier Ludwig & Dominique and the designers from the Studio Noir Vif. It is a laboratory object that opens up new horizons for contemporary cabinetmaking through its design and the new techniques it explores.

Argo was designed under the auspices of the ancient constellation Argo Navis. The three main parts of the hanger are named after the three subsections of this ancient constellation: the hull (Carina), the stern (Puppis) and the sail (Vela). A secret detail is that the constellation is represented in straw marquetry on the inside of the stern. The installation of a copper network on the curved walnut surface of the stern was a major technological and scientific challenge. It could not have been achieved without the help of the MINES Paristech Materials Research Laboratory, the Saint-Gobain Coating Solutions Department and the support of the Carnot Network. The copper pattern on the double-curved surface of the stern was produced by thermal flame spraying and a specially developed masking process.

Combining an innovative approach and a work of excellence, this birthbed is exemplary and testifies to the vivacity of current creativity.

Winner of the Liliane Bettencourt Prize for the intelligence of the hand in 2019.