Das Haus Installation by Studio Truly Truly at IMM Cologne 2019.

Das Haus is an annual showcase to demonstrate one emerging designer, or group of designers, who take on the ultimate space for living – 200 sqm of design heaven, with every last detail accounted for.

With past editions completed by some of designs biggest names – think Doshi Levien, Neri & Hu and Sebastian Herkner to name a few, I was extremely excited to hear that Rotterdam based Australian duo Studio Truly Truly had been granted free reign for 2019. Having followed their work for many years, I was intrigued to see how their unique brand of conceptual product and exhibition design would translate… And it did not disappoint.

I was lucky enough to have a personal tour by Joel Booey (his partner Kate was away with their newborn baby – talk about timing!), who took me through some of the nuances of each facet of their Das Haus installation. Rather than a rigid form of pre-determined spaces, the Truly Truly Haus was a fluid transition between four emotive areas: Serene, Reclusive, Active, and Reclining. Each area seemed to have no fixed boundary, rather small details helping to define each loosely. One example was the subtle change in heights to transition spatial function, from the kitchen top as the most active centre of the house, the dining/ work area slowly descended into the Reclining space through a series of lava stone tiles in a warm yellow finish.

The lowest point in the space was highlighted by the duo’s Hatch pouf in a vibrant green – maximum relaxation level achieved. Another example was the placement of their prototype Press Sofa and Pouf, located within a living room setting, but faced towards the Active kitchen/ work area to open up a dialogue between the two spaces.

See more project by Studio Truly Truly on Yellowtrace.

The biggest detail that resonated with me as I walked around the space was Truly Truly’s ability to harmoniously pull together so many contrasting elements. As Joel explained, this is a deliberate approach within all their design work and brings attention to certain design elements. This approach can be seen in their Ikea PS 2017 Sofa, whose hard metal wire frame only exists to accentuate the soft nature of the throw cushions it holds – a concept extended into the Press Sofa with soft cushions squeezing through wide timber planks.

The exterior of the space further demonstrated this approach – a literal blown-up camouflage pattern, at one point trying to remain hidden from the goings on of the fair, at the same time inviting you closer with warm yellows tones and the texture of the Kvadrat fabrics. The Reclusive area also featured subtle contrasting elements – the warm natural tones of the bedroom offset by a cold blue blanket, or the sharp stainless steel vanity in a bathroom full of rounded and soft forms. It all flowed to perfection!

Photo © Koelnmesse.

As an Australian living in Europe, I was also intrigued to hear how these two cultures had influenced Joel and Kate’s approach to the ultimate abode. Rather than talking about the space, Joel pointed out how the two different cultures have directly influenced their design style. From the Dutch conceptuality and the importance placed on narrative to the design language of Australia with a greater focus on craft and a high standard in production. These elements are no more visible than in their Typography collection with Australian lighting brand Rakumba; a conceptual lighting family finished to perfection. Typography was used throughout the space in new configurations, and with the new addition of a floor lamp that launched in Cologne.

The space as a whole was expertly executed, down to the finer details including artwork and even the notepad sitting on the kitchen table. With Das Haus firmly sitting as my highlight of IMM Cologne, the trajectory of Studio Truly Truly is on the rise. I cannot wait to see what is next for Joel and Kate.