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Sculptural Simplicity: The Baton Collection
The Baton collection by Ronan Bouroullec began with a deceptively simple yet powerful idea a handle. From this minimalist starting point, a wide range of objects have emerged, all connected by the Baton handle—a single, curved line that defines the aesthetic of the entire collection. The handle’s sleek, functional design serves as both a visual and tactile cue, inviting users to interact with the objects, move them around, and integrate them into their daily lives in meaningful ways.
Each piece in the Baton collection is built around a cast iron base, providing a strong, stable foundation. The Baton itself, however, introduces a sense of lightness and movement, giving the pieces a versatility that allows them to be reconfigured and adapted to different spaces. This combination of materials—solid cast iron with a delicate, curved Baton—creates a balance between durability and elegance, making the collection as functional as it is beautiful.
The collection debuted at Paris Fashion Week during the design salon Matter and Shape, where it drew attention for its minimalist yet evocative approach. The Baton collection is the brainchild of Ronan Bouroullec, a celebrated designer whose work often explores the relationship between form, function, and emotion. Bouroullec’s design philosophy is deeply influenced by the landscapes of Brittany, where he was born and where he still frequently returns to recharge. The constantly shifting skies, tides, and natural elements of this region are reflected in the Baton collection, which emphasises change, movement, and adaptability.
One of the most striking aspects of the Baton collection is its ability to transform spaces. The pieces are not just decorative objects—they invite interaction. A candleholder can be easily moved from one room to another, a room divider can be repositioned to create new layouts, and each object can be adjusted to meet the needs of the moment. This flexibility is central to Bouroullec’s vision, which is rooted in the idea that design should not be static, but instead should respond to the rhythms and changes of daily life.
In addition to its practical benefits, the Baton collection brings a sense of poetry to everyday rituals. Bouroullec designed the collection with the idea that simple actions—lighting a candle, rearranging a space—can be elevated through thoughtful design. The Baton pieces are meant to enhance these moments, adding a layer of beauty and grace to even the most mundane activities.
The Baton collection also speaks to the tension between industrial design and craftsmanship. While each piece is meticulously crafted and refined, they retain a sense of raw, elemental strength. The cast iron base provides weight and durability, while the Baton itself introduces a delicate, almost organic quality. This balance between opposites—strength and elegance, function and poetry—gives the collection its unique character.
As Bouroullec continues to expand the Baton collection, the potential for new pieces and applications seems limitless. The handle, which began as a simple design gesture, has become a powerful symbol of movement, transformation, and connection. Whether used in a home or an office, the Baton collection offers a fresh, dynamic approach to design that invites us to reconsider how we interact with the objects in our lives.
