the beauty
of difference
RES Inaugural Exhibition at Bangkok Design Week 2025
RES, a contemporary aluminum furniture brand rooted from KUN Decorate and Conquer (the legendary steel furniture brand), both under the Kunakij Furniture Industry Co., Ltd. - a 70-year-old furniture factory - presents a very first time captivating exhibition exploring the diverse facets of beauty.
Through the lens of Yaowarat, where everything begins!
Yaowarat is a well-known, vibrant district in Bangkok among Thais and tourists from all over the world. We might not know or overlook something which is called “change”. The exhibition unveils a narrative about transformation and the enduring beauty of change. While this bustling neighbourhood is renowned worldwide, others often overlook the rich cultural tapestry and the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that define Yaowarat.
The exhibition, divided into three sections - The Beauty of Difference, The Beauty of the Past, and A Harmonious Dissonance - delves into the future, past and present showcasing the unique perspectives of 12 designers and artists.
The exhibition unveils the hidden beauty in human-made inventions in various dimensions which are embedded in the way of life that we may overlook through the medium of metal, particularly steel and aluminum. By combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, the artworks invite viewers to discover new perspectives on metal and appreciate the limitless possibilities of this versatile material.
Section 1: The Future
the beauty
of difference
Beauty is subjective and personal. The way that people interpret things is also different.
In this exhibition, artists challenge our traditional notions of beauty by creating stunning works of art and design from aluminum. Florists, interior designers, textile designers, and furniture designers explore the limitless possibilities of this material, offering fresh perspectives and inspiring new ways of seeing.
KNOT CHAIR
designed by Antika Chomchuen
The design of the stool uses extra-large aluminum pipes, which are rarely seen in furniture design, and presents the skill of the craftsmen, demonstrating their expertise through the work, the angle of each piece, the connection of every joint, resulting in the “Knot Chair”.
BAM BAM HAVEN
designed by Mattana Snidvongs Na Ayudhya
“BAM BAM HAVEN” is like a safe space, a place of refuge for the mind when we bring nature inside. We contain life energy, creativity, memories, emotions, and interconnected imaginations, starting from the first node and continuing endlessly.
WAFFLE LAMP
designed by TRIMODE STUDIO
The lamp series is inspired by the “Waffle slab” floor system, which is a honeycomb-like square grid structure. Trimode took the octagonal profile, cut the angles to have different short and long sides, and connected them to create an interesting dimensional square unit. When reflecting light from above, this piece is designed as a unit that can be used to be placed together as a system.
DROP
designed by Ratthee Phaisanchotsiri
This piece is like dropping an idea into a full source of water, and the overflowing water represents the shapes that occur naturally. All I can do is let it flow freely without any framework or rules, and then simply and honestly record those values.
SNOW WHITE
designed by ease studio
Our design highlights RES’s signature semi-circle aluminum pipe, which serves as both a defining
joint and a structural feature. To complement this, we have integrated rich teak wood to create an adjustable framework that allows for size customization. This combination ensures that each mirror can be tailored in size and color to suit individual preferences while adding a touch of character to any space.
Section 2: The Past
The Beauty
of the Past
This exhibition showcases a collection of artifacts discovered within this historic building, once a home to generations past, from generations to generations.
Everyday objects i.e. antique wooden chairs, a sewing machine, and a wicker rocking chair are offering glimpses into the lives and lifestyles of people from that era. These vintage pieces are seamlessly integrated with contemporary furniture, such as modern folding chairs, a steel folding table, and a computer shelf, to create a dialogue between past and present. These objects serve as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of those who came before us, and inspire us to build upon their legacy.
Without them, we cannot be what we are today.
Section 3: The Present
A Harmonious Dissonance
From bendable steel pipes to the innovative application of traditional machinery for contemporary creations, the evolution of furniture design is evident. Aluminum, the metal of the future, has overcome the limitations of steel with its weather resistance, lightweight properties, and non-magnetic nature. However, this shift has demanded a higher level of craftsmanship, skill, and meticulous attention to detail.
The transition from familiar, traditional methods to novel approaches is never straightforward. The clash between generations and their varying degrees of familiarity necessitates a bold willingness to experiment and challenge conventions. By embracing this dissonance, we can seamlessly blend disparate ideas and forge a harmonious future for design.
