Altered Heritage
Bench for GLIF
This sculptural bench originates from parts of a damaged Italian console dating back to the early 20th century. Rather than restoring the missing sections, the design reinterprets the fragmented form through bold material interventions. Hand-carved beechwood is combined with Rosso Levanto marble and satin stainless steel to create a hybrid composition. The result is a functional seat that retains traces of its historical origin while presenting itself as a contemporary collectible object.
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Altered Heritage by Mısra Özel
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Bench by Mısra Özel
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Mısra Özel Altered Heritage
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Mısra Özel Bench
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Unique Properties
“Altered Heritage” reinterprets parts of a damaged and incomplete Italian console from the early 20th century (1900–1950s). Instead of restoring it to its original condition, the design embraces its fragmented state and reimagines it into a sculptural bench. Combining hand-carved beechwood with Rosso Levanto marble and satin stainless steel, the piece balances historical integrity with bold material contrasts. The result is a hybrid form that functions as a bench while asserting itself as a collectible, gallery-level design object.
Tags
Altered heritage, collectible design, sculptural bench, vintage revival, stainless steel furniture, reinterpreted furniture, contemporary heritage, one of a kind design, design art object
Production Technology
The bench operates as a seating unit but is also intended to be experienced as a sculptural centerpiece. While the user interacts by sitting, the piece transcends ordinary use through its dramatic silhouette, contrasting materials, and curated material composition. It invites users to engage visually and spatially, establishing a contemplative interaction with heritage and contemporary form.
Design Challenge
The greatest challenge was balancing respect for the object’s historical integrity while applying radical material and formal interventions. Technically, reconciling aged wood with heavy contemporary elements without compromising structure required extensive prototyping and creative engineering. Conceptually, transforming memory into bold expression without pastiche was key.
Project Duration
The project started in May 2025 in Istanbul and finished in July 2025 in Istanbul.
Operation Flow
The bench is designed to be used as a functional seating object while also serving as a sculptural centerpiece. The user engages with it by sitting, but its bold form and contrasting materials invite visual exploration as much as physical use. It does not transform mechanically, but redefines the act of sitting through its expressive presence and curated material story.
Research
Type of Research: Practice-based design experimentation Objectives: To explore how fragmented antique elements can be redefined through contemporary materials Methodology: Archival analysis, prototyping, hands-on material testing Data Tools: Mid-century furniture catalogues, material resistance tests Participants: Design team, woodworkers, metal and stone artisans Results: A one-of-a-kind collectible bench bridging historical memory with bold formal intervention Insights: Respecting heritage doesn't require restoration—it can mean transformation Impact: Promotes reinterpretation of cultural artifacts through design rather than conservation
Inspiration
Inspired by the concept of Altered Heritage, this collectible bench reimagines how memory and material can merge into a sculptural and functional object. It originated from the idea of building a dialogue between historical fragments and contemporary interventions. The design invites reflection on how inherited objects can be reborn through bold gestures, new materials, and precise craftsmanship—bridging past and present in one unique edition.
Project Overview
Altered Heritage Bench has been a Silver winner in the Cultural Heritage and Culture Industry Design award category in the year 2025 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.
Image Credits
For design images and photos please credit Mısra Özel.
Silver Recognition
Mısra Özel was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2026, a testament to excellence of their work Altered Heritage Bench.
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