Named for its home in France, design group Lyon Beton embodies a traditional European aesthetic married with modern sensibilities. The latest addition to their impressive line of furniture is PLUS, a clear and concise concrete collection that allows for optimal adaptability. Conceived by Bertrand Jayr, Plus 1, 2, and 4 promise to “Fit in Your Ideas” through three distinct pieces: a single storage cube (1) that doubles as a seat, a larger bench (2), and an accent “table” (4). However, those labels are relative; each modular unit plays infinite roles – from shelf, bookcase, or room divider to coffee table, nightstand, or corner cabinet.

The rugged, brutalist shapes are undeniably reminiscent of the all-too-familiar cinderblock, which communicates both their their utility and maintains a subtle sculptural theme as the material’s rough surface meets the geometry of right angles and beveled edges with a certain refined opposition. Humble and candid construction elevates the centuries-old craft of concrete and its indispensable role in architecture and daily life, while rectilinear contours help to revive the material for modern day.

Each versatile piece can complement any space and solve practically any spatial deficiency; between its perfectly minimal aesthetic to endless functionality, the brilliantly simple units combine structure and style. Lyon Beton “[aims] to offer an alternative to all those who are looking for unusual objects. Combining creativity, aesthetics and practicality, our collections offer a discreet and strong presence.” These sound design ideals can be easily identified in Jayr’s elegant, practical product that demonstrates his enormous sensitivity to the latent features of form. The addition of cork seat cushions and porcelain serving dishes allow for further exploration of “space typologies,” while the cubes themselves can be stacked and rearranged to create a sturdy framework.

Design: Lyon Beton / Bertrand Jayr for Gessato