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True Heritage
100+10 Years of True Evolution
Foster + Partners
True Heritage
The deep belief that the quality of the
spaces can directly infl uence the quality of
our lives, both in the domestic as in the work-
ing and public environments, is the guiding
principle of Foster + Partners’ work. Strongly
connected to this idea is the knowledge that
architecture derives from the material and
spiritual needs of people. Every project must
take into consideration the physical, cultural
and climatic context in which it will be de-
veloped. The best type of architecture is the
synthesis between the diff erent elements
which contribute to the building’s persona-
lity. Its structure, which keeps the building
together, its services that make it function,
its sustainability, the quality of its natural
lighting, the symbolic value of its shape, the
relationship with the skyline, the urban en-
vironment, the capability of infl uencing in a
positive way the culture and thought of the
historical moment in which it develops. This
holistic approach is deeply connected with
a strong commitment towards their clients,
as well as the people that will benefi t of their
projects. The relationship between Foster
+ Partners and its clients is based on a pre-
mium quality service, and on the respect of
two very precious resources like time and
expenses.
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100+10 Years
together, its services that make it function,
The Cove seat for public spaces was
created following the collaboration between
Foster + Partners and Poltrona Frau for the
Cathay Solus Chair, developed in 2013 for
the Cathay Pacific Lounges at Hong Kong
International Airport. From this research
sprouted a particular insight on the changing
necessities of the traveller; the need for a
private and multifunctional refuge even in a
crowded public space.
Cove is a protective shell that offers
those who sit on it an oasis of calm and tran-
quillity, sheltered from the chaos of the
surrounding environment without the need
for dividing walls. The geometry is organic
and enveloping. The shape comes from the
study of seating ergonomics and postures of
users, when working and when relaxing. For
example, the side chair allows the user to sit
at a desk and to comfortably work with a
laptop, or to rest his or her elbows on the
small armrests while reading a book or a
tablet. Cove can also function as a mini
office; the large seat is equipped with a USB
charger, an optional mains power outlet and
a table that can be used as an informal desk.
The high, curved walls can be uphol-
stered both inside and outside in Pelle Frau®
leather, saddle-leather or fabric. Thanks to
the refined materials and a minimalist design,
the Cove airport seat unites elegance of
design with practicality of use to create a
one-of-a-kind product.
2018
Cove
Architects and Designers
