Bench by Nico van der Laan for Pauluskerk, Dongen, 1967

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Long bench designed by Nico van der Laan for the Pauluskerk, Dongen, The Netherlands, 1967. This exceptional and rare bench … Read more Long bench designed by Nico van der Laan for the Pauluskerk, Dongen, The Netherlands, 1967. This exceptional and rare bench embodies the serene power and precision that define the architectural language of the Bossche School. Designed for the Pauluskerk, the piece is made from grey-stained pine and set on a solid galvanized steel frame. Its construction is both intelligent and refined. The wooden elements are joined with invisible fixings, creating an uninterrupted visual rhythm, while the visible copper nails are perfectly aligned and accentuate the clear structure of the design. Over time, the seating surface has developed a warm and honest patina, giving the piece depth and character without losing its remarkable clarity. What makes this bench truly extraordinary are its proportions. Every line and angle reflects the underlying principles of the plastic number, resulting in a composition that feels balanced, calm, and harmonious from every perspective. The slightly inclined backrest and the length of the seat are calculated to achieve both visual serenity and human comfort. The relationship between the solid wooden body and the slender galvanized steel legs gives the bench a grounded presence while maintaining a certain lightness, as if it gently hovers in space. Its proportion is not only functional but also architectural, resonating strongly with the spatial principles of the Bossche School. Nico van der Laan was the brother of Dom Hans van der Laan, one of the leading figures of the movement. The two collaborated on several projects, though the exact nature of their working relationship remains unknown. Nico van der Laan realized a number of architectural projects, but few interior or furniture pieces of his hand have ever appeared on the market. This scarcity gives this bench an exceptional position within his oeuvre, representing one of the rare tangible manifestations of his design philosophy. Provenance: Pauluskerk, Dongen, 1967. See less