At the end of last summer, Ross Lovegrove and Portugese brand JNF Architectural Hardware announced they would collaborate on "disruptive collections" of objects. Now they've released teaser images of the first, a line of 3D-printed doorknobs with Lovegrovian spirit:
"Recognising the growing challenge of sameness in architectural hardware, Lovegrove sought to redefine the landscape of door handles and door accessories by exploring the limitless possibilities offered by advanced manufacturing processes. Each piece is designed to be functional and durable, making a strong visual impact—hallmarks of Lovegrove's work. The result is a product line that enhances the architectural experience while embracing a more mindful and responsible approach to using our planet's resources."
Though the three pieces won't launch until next month, they've already won a 2025 German Design Award.
The Ross Lovegrove x JNF collections will be officially unveiled at next month's Dubai Design Week.
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Just imagine the amount of grime, bacteria and vira that these touch points will harbour, never to be dislodged.
Lovegrove has some wonderful sculptural forms to his name, but this is one application in which form has triumphed fatally over function.
I'm with you on this notion, the first thing that came to mind was the difficulty in keeping these clean - gotta keep the help busy somehow.
Nah, it'll be fine! Doesn't everyone steam-clean their hardware?
MMMMM... finger cheese
All door handles should be made from copper, if we're looking at safety as a core part of function. Viruses and bacteria don't survive for very long on copper surfaces. Some hospitals have replaced the floor handles and push plates with copper versions.
Silver is also anti- bacterial, so they can be white as well. I've never before considered the need to clean door handles, neither have I worried about being injured by them. Like you wisely pointed out, material choice can negate the need of cleaning. I'd say that the primary function of design, is to be beautiful. Sure functionality should not be sacrificed, but when it comes to door handles, there isn't really much that can go wrong. After all is said, this design is much more ergonomical, than the round one, which requires grip strength and dexterity disabled people doesn't have..
Beautiful pieces and very elegant. I had the privilege of working on the project and have been touching those handles since early days in the development process, they are in fact incredibly ergonomic and comfortable while in use. It's hilarious to read the comments above being so critical yet coming from people who haven't actually even touched the pieces. As they say: "Don't knock it until you've tried it!"
WHY ?????
Sculpturally lovely but terrible as a door handle.