The Norman Foster Foundation is pleased to present Cosmos, a new collaboration between Tecno and the Norman Foster Foundation which shows the first stage in development of a system for a wide range of applications.

The Cosmos table and furniture system, produced by Tecno, has evolved from a materials research programme by the Norman Foster Foundation. The first prototypes in carbon fibre were inspired by the frames of light weight racing cycles and developed with a materials consultant to the aeronautical industries. Working with FIDAMC, the Norman Foster Foundation team used state-of-the-art 3D modelling, structural software and five axis CNC machines. The outcome was a table of ultra slim profiles with a high strength-to-weight ratio. The elegantly pared down frame weighed only five kilograms but could support loads of up to 400 kilos. Since then, further research and studies by a joint team from the Foundation and Tecno has shown that a similar performance and appearance can be achieved from a composite of aluminium and steel components.

The first prototype to show this evolution is a rectangular table composed of nine elements. This is the basis for a later family of components which will allow the table spine to grow, creating clusters and linear grouping for the workspace. The second prototype is a round table, often diagrammed by Norman Foster as being symbolic of different disciplines coming together as a creative team. This is the spirit behind the Cosmos project and its first presentation.

Norman Foster, President of Norman Foster Foundation, Founder and Executive Chairman of Foster + Partners, stated: ‘Cosmos explores the potential for state-of-the-art fabrication and materials to create an elegant and flexible skeleton system for the home and workplace’.

Giuliano Mosconi, Chairman of Tecno S.p.A., ‘The collaboration with Norman began in the 1970s with Nomos, which is still one of our company’s long sellers. By developing this new product, Tecno confirms its vision linked to experimentation and creativity while continuing to promote the values of design, excellence and innovation’.