like “BEADS” the vision was to create a chain of modular cubes connected by a rope, symbolizing how we, as a lebanese society, are brought together through one of our most meaningful cultural expressions: The Gathering.
In Lebanon, hospitality isn’t just custom, it’s an identity. Whether sitting around the Karkeh, having a family gathering on a Sunday or preparing the Mouneh, these moments became unfiltered and genuine.
I also remember the rush to tidy up, dress well, and watch my mother prepare the Tabseh before placing the Rakweh for guests.
These rituals shaped not only our behavior but also our homes: multiple living rooms, large dining tables, fridges always stocked and spaces built for connection.
In today’s compact living spaces, I wanted to distill that same spirit into a contemporary, space-conscious piece. The modular cubes are minimal in form, yet versatile; serving as seating, a coffee table, or transforming to fit the moment. The rope reinforces the structure both physically and symbolically, tying each piece, and each person together.
Like the gatherings that inspired it, the design reveals its raw structure openly, while a refined oak finish provides warmth and familiarity. What’s usually hidden is brought to the surface; honest, adaptable, and grounded in tradition.
What makes this piece truly special is its openness to growth. Whether you’re alone or your social circle expands, so can the product; additional cubes can be added to reflect the ever-growing web of connections, just like the gatherings that define us.
Design Approach
The system’s minimalist geometry conceals a layered narrative: openness, authenticity, and growth. The cubes outer skin is crafted from water repellent MDF, finished with natural oak, and coated with polyurethane, while the internal structure is exposed while maintaining a warm, tactile presence. Every detail reinforces a sense of honesty and craftsmanship.
The rope, made of dyed silk PPMF, physically ties the cubes together while embodying the emotional thread that binds human connections. A set of precision-engineered stoppers and connectors, finished in heat-colored metal, ensures both durability and aesthetic harmony.
Functionality
Each cube measures 24 x 24 x 24 cm, designed to achieve ergonomic proportions when stacked:
- 24 cm for floor seating
- 48 cm for a chair
- 72 cm for a coffee table
- 96 cm for a high table or bar module
The modular structure encourages creative reconfiguration, users can rearrange, expand, or adapt the composition according to spatial needs. Its assembly relies on a straightforward mechanism: a rope passing through the cube’s channels and ports, secured by two stoppers. Additional extensions can be attached as the arrangement grows.
Materiality
- Structure: Water Repellent MDF, 17 mm thickness.
- Finish: Natural light or dark oak laminate, coated with polyurethane for scratch and stain resistance.
- Connectors: Salmon colored painted metal.
- Rope: Dyed silk PPMF braided rope
Philosophy
BEADS reflects the spirit of connection embedded in everyday rituals—sharing a meal, welcoming guests, gathering as a community. Its modular design adapts to both solitude and togetherness, expanding organically as life and relationships evolve.
Dimensions
Cube: 24 x 24 x 24 cm
Weight: Approx. 4.6 kg per cube