Featured Story  ·  Trends

Modern, Minimalist & Mediterranean

September 1, 2023

words by Monisha Sivanesan | images courtesy of Expormim

Sticking to its cultural roots but bringing it to a global scale is Expormim, earnestly sharing its exquisitely handcrafted furniture with those in search of modern simplicity at its finest.

Far more flexible, durable and sustainable than most tropical wood, rattan has long been strongly associated with Mediterranean tradition – and rightfully so. Hailing from Spain, indoor-and-outdoor furniture giant Expormim first stepped onto the scene in 1960 to capitalise on the inherent ingenuity of this natural vine, its founder Miguel Laso Tortosa aiming to address the lack of furniture products made from natural materials in Europe and fulfil the need for greater industrialization in Moixent, a town south of Valencia.

Over a short period of time, the family-owned brand prevailed in doing just that with captivating, well-crafted designs for all kinds of contemporary spaces, while remaining utterly conscientious of the environment. From the enhancement of rattan handling techniques to collaborations with renowned architects and designers such as Oscar Tusquets Blanca, Benedetta Tagliabue and Jaime Hayon, these pivotal events soon led to Expormim’s monumental success in the global furniture market.

Perfectly encapsulating the brand’s ethos is the Cask collection by Norm Architects. A poise of elegant beauty, this series of lounge furniture – a small sofa, loveseat, armchair and ottoman – takes on fancy minimalism with round shapes and classic techniques for a contemporary but timeless and embracing design. The combination of circular rattan pieces, repetitive back rib construction and soft upholstery brings an overall iconic presence to it. 

However, bear in mind that rattan is not always the key ingredient behind Expormim’s trail of glory. The company also enjoys incorporating other environmentally savvy materials to bring their visions to life, as demonstrated by Barcelona-based Altherr Désile Park’s Talo outdoor table series. Expressive and robust, the wildest rocky landscapes were the source of inspiration for these dining, coffee and side tables made entirely from highly resistant, sustainable materials: coloured UHPC concrete for the asymmetrical base and Dekton® and FENIX NTM® for the top. Meeting halfway between nature and geometry, the final pieces are steeped in hues of stone, slate and terracotta for a calming effect.

The same Mother Earth-friendly tactic is employed for the Land of the Rising Sun-inspired outdoor sofa by veteran Milanese duo, Ludovica+Roberto Palomba. Named ‘Obi’, meaning ‘belt’ much like the one that is integral to the kimono, the designers have directly translated this by wrapping the sofa backrest cushions with a waterproof elastic band of a contrasting colour.

Its structure is made of 100% recyclable aluminium injection moulding and profile extrusion. Obi is that tiny bit of disruption, that chaotic component that defines beauty as a variation with respect to an overly constructed order.

Staying in touch with cultural roots entail returning to the past to improve upon it for the present. With this in mind, Expormim does not shy away from updating, and expanding, its own beloved creations for current audiences. Under the concept of spring to symbolise new beginnings come three reiterated chair collections, starting with the augmenting of the light and stackable Petale family of chairs by MUT Design; this is achieved with the introduction of three different patterns of woven rope for the backrests, as well as a new bar stool.

Manel Molina’s original aluminium Blum armchair, in the shape of a blooming flower, now comes in two more versions with different supports (just like the new editions of the Lapala chair by Lievore Altherr Molina): one with classic four-legs and another with a pyramidal base. Additions from both are made of FSC® certified sapele wood for its hardwearing, lasting quality that makes it perfect for outdoor use. 

A symbiosis of tradition and innovation, Expormim substantiates its everlasting appeal by delivering universal excellence without losing a hint of authenticity. If you’re looking to get a premium taste of this brand, simply head over to the country’s premier importer and retailer of branded lighting and progressive furniture – XTRA at The Gardens Mall, Kuala Lumpur – where you can freely experience all of these collections, and more.

For more information, please visit xtrafurniture.com