Studio TOOJ Looks to Surrealism for “DUK” Furniture Collection

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Stockholm studio, Tooj, has designed a line of tables and consoles incorporating mycelium, a fungus-like organism.

Crafted with designs reminiscent of surrealism, using a color scheme characteristic of their minimalist style, the DUK Series is made from a unique material – mycelium, which has been refined by MycoWorks from the intricate network of a mushroom’s root system.

This material is called Reishi™, and it’s known for its extraordinary levels of toughness and resilience due to its unique growth process. As it matures, a thick layer develops on its surface, and an additional fabric layer can be incorporated to boost the product’s functionality. MycoWorks explains that this structure is robust and interconnected, which improves both the strength and tactile quality of our goods.

So far, most of MycoWorks’ collaborative projects have been in the realms of fashion and high-end automotive industries, primarily due to its role as a substitute for traditional leather. However, during this year’s Milan Design Week, they partnered with Studio TOOJ to develop home decor items instead.

The designs crafted by the Swedish studio aim to represent fabric flowing dynamically, and visualize fabric laid over a strong foundation. They describe the distinctive patterns in the material as similar to veins found in marble, adding that each piece takes on its own distinct character. They express that these pieces provoke curiosity – “are they mere fabric folded in a corner or are they stone-carved sculptures?

Inside the space was a folding screen called Mycelium Paravent, designed by Fanny Perrier. This creation draws inspiration from the ornamental artistry of the 1930s and the work of French furniture designer Jean-Michel Franck. As described by Mycoworks, “This piece brings together art, science, and craftsmanship, showcasing Reishi™ as a material that pays homage to traditional techniques while looking towards the future.

This year’s Milan Design Week, held earlier this month, featured both the DUK Series and the Mycelium Paravent screens for public viewing.

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2025-04-29 18:26