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This Sofa Doubles as a Life Raft to Highlight Climate Change Complacency | Bliss Sofa

FDT Bureau

Design agency Mother's design division has unveiled a unique floating sofa during New York Design Week that serves as a playful critique of complacency towards climate change. Named the Bliss Sofa, this conceptual furniture piece doubles as a life raft, featuring cushions upholstered in orange fabric commonly used for life jackets. The detachable cushions can swiftly transform into flotation devices in the event of a flood. Additionally, the sofa includes a matching ottoman that opens like a suitcase to store items such as a cocktail shaker. Here is a detailed report on FURNITURE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (FDT).

The purpose of this one-of-a-kind sofa is to draw attention to the disparity in people’s capacity to respond to the consequences of the climate crisis. Mother founder Paul Malmstrom explained that those who possess the means are often unaffected by catastrophes like rising sea levels. He described the Bliss Sofa as catering to affluent individuals who can simply sit back, relax and float away when faced with water.

Functionally operational, the Bliss Sofa prototype is equipped with a water level gauge, emergency flares integrated into the armrests, and a paddle stored in its wooden backrest. The cushions are covered in water-resistant Sunbrella fabric and secured with black utility straps resembling those found on life jackets. The ottoman is designed to float alongside the sofa.

The Bliss Sofa comes with various accompanying objects, including a satirical manual instructing individuals on how to navigate being adrift at sea while ironically encouraging them to relax throughout the experience. Malmstrom clarified that the intention is, in fact, to discourage relaxation.

Mother plans to sell the piece and has committed to donating a portion of the proceeds to the United Nations Refugee Agency. The Bliss Sofa is currently on display as part of the Harmonious Proportions exhibition by Chelsea gallery Tuleste Factory during NYCxDesign.

Project details

Creator/designer: Mother; Mother Design

Industrial design: Keillor MacLeod

Carpentry: Tom Breglia (Liberty Labs)

Upholstery: Kelsey Knight

Image credit: Charlie Schuck

 

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