Spark by Thomas Pedersen

Thomas Pedersen trained as an architect from Aarhus School of Architecture, and has run SPARK by Thomas Pedersen since his graduation in 2002. The design studio strives to create product and furniture designs that combine ergonomics with aesthetics and sustainability. This is reflected in designs that combine the Danish penchant for simplicity and durable materials with a modern look where nothing is left to chance.

SPARK by Thomas Pedersen works across media such as pencil sketches, 3D models and physical prototypes to ensure an aligned balance between form and function. The main inspiration comes from nature and the proportions of the human body. This results in a distinctly organic line rooted in the Scandinavian design tradition, yet forward-thinking at the same time.

The idea for X·TEND is born

The idea for a coat rack as a kind of building set came from Thomas’ childhood playing with Lego and Brio building sets. Here he wondered if it was possible to make it easy for customers to put together their very own unique coat rack. He remembers from his time with Lego that on the back of the box there were always alternative building options for the bricks you bought. And that was actually the most fun.

Design ideas

Here are some of the considerations that designer Thomas Pedersen made during the X·TEND design process:

• The idea behind X·TEND is based on the simple “scissor arm principle”. Instead of one scissor arm as we know it from lamps and mirrors, the scissor arm is split into individual elements and designed as a system where you can design and assemble your own customised coat rack.
  
  
• To make the system as simple as possible, it is minimised to include only one arm-joint element, which is then repeated and assembled into the desired coat rack.
  
  
• It has was discovered that eight arms provide a sufficient number of set-up options, which gives 14 pegs.
  
  
• Based on the eight arms, numerous arrangements have been created that work really well. These can then be twisted, squeezed and stretched to change their character and appearance. Many of these arrangements are also infinitely expandable.
  
  
• You can easily imagine making more than one length of arm where you can reuse the assembly element and the knobs.
  
  
• We envisage moulding the arms in recycled plastic or possibly recycled aluminium.
  
  
• The knobs are available in three sizes, with the two smallest being made of metal or recycled plastic. The large knobs could be made of wood, cork, DuPont Corian or a similar material.
  
  
• Other materials and other sizes and shapes of pegs will be added on an ongoing basis to suit the fashion/style. Furthermore, knob elements can be developed with a different function such as a mirror, key holder, a hook or a shelf, etc.