FLORENCE, ITALY - A Florence design graduate has created an inspired and innovative piece of furniture that reflects her interpretation of the dynamic behaviours of nature. The designer of the cutting-edge table is a Canadian student Natalie Goldfinger, a graduate of the inaugural Master of Furniture Design run by the Florence Institute of Design International. Natalie says she drew her inspiration for the inventive design from nature, finding herself compelled to capture the beauty of natural movement in her creation, aptly entitled ‘Swarm’.

The table is a geometric interpretation of the dynamics of movement found in nature and will be constructed from all natural and sustainable materials including mostly wood. "Swarm behaviour is the collective motion of a large number of self-¬propelled entities,” Natalie explained. "It is an emergent behaviour arising from simple rules that are followed by individuals and does not involve any central coordination." The effect of movement and motion is achieved through a series of interlocking black and white triangles of numerous sizes.

Made up of three separate table elements that interlock, the unique piece of furniture can be configured in several variations. The small table, office desk and long table can be used as three separate pieces, or put together in different formations to create everything from a larger office desk to a medium or even large dining table with serving tray. The contemporary table system will be produced by a Florentine artisan as a limited edition release. The unique piece was visualized by Natalie during her time at the FIDI, under the tutelage of internationally renowned professor arch. Leonardo Rossano. Rossano was one of the talented architects under whom Natalie studied as part of the first group of students to graduate from the new Master course.

Natalie was formerly a graduate of the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc), widely regarded as one of the most avant-garde architecture schools in the USA. FIDI’s one-year Master of Furniture Design program was successfully held for the first time this year.

About Arch Leonardo Rossano

Arch Leonardo Rossano teaches furniture design courses at the FIDI, and his unique style has been described as ‘working with forms that are fresh and innovative while using a variety of materials, everything from bent plywood to aluminium and steel’. Born in Taranto in 1963, Arch Rossano graduated from Florence University with a degree in Architecture in 1991. He has worked in collaboration with renowned architect Claudio Nardi, taking part in various design projects including boutique design for Italian fashion houses Dolce and Gabbana, Gianfranco Ferre and Valentino. Since 1998 he has worked as a freelance professional designer of furniture and furniture complements for fair stands and company communications. He has designed furniture pieces manufactured by companies including TRUE Design, TMA and Lapalma.

About Florence Institute of Design International

Florence Institute of Design International is an international school of arts and design in Florence, Italy. It offers courses in Bachelors and Masters in interior design, graphic design and furniture design. For more information visit www.florence-institute.com