At Anna Sahlsténin katu 13, a curved space meets the elegance of solid wood

In the elegant lobby of Anna Sahlsténin katu 13 in Espoo, gatherings are given a fitting setting. For the lobby of this residential building, designed by architects Hannunkari & Mäkipaja Ltd., Palad REX-SLICE HARD benches were selected, crafted from solid oak.

Commissioned by Espoon Asunnot Ltd. and built by Soimu, Anna Sahlsténin katu 13 is a new development comprising 67 apartments. The building’s lobby serves as a hub for encounters, inviting residents to pause, converse, and spend time together. It can also host residents’ meetings, small events, or casual interactions among neighbours.

The REX-SLICE HARD benches support community life by creating a welcoming and clear aesthetic while providing a durable and beautiful place for gatherings. Community is one of the core values of the Palad design furniture brand: Palad collections are designed to foster social interaction and meaningful encounters.

Curved lines and the timelessness of oak complement each other

The curved wall and dignified atmosphere of the lobby at Anna Sahlsténin katu 13 call for furniture with clean lines and timeless elegance. The REX-SLICE HARD benches meet this challenge perfectly.

The curved brick wall, finished with glass accents, defines the space, while solid oak adds warmth and permanence to the interior. Together, they create a harmonious balance where modern architecture meets the natural elegance of wood.

The lobby’s gray brick wall and gray flooring provide a calm, modern backdrop, complemented stylishly by the oak seats and steel legs of the REX-SLICE HARD benches. The metal legs add visual lightness and contrast, and the combination of gray surfaces, glass, oak, and chrome gives the space a classic, enduring character.

The legs of the REX-SLICE HARD benches are available not only in polished stainless steel but also in any RAL colour, allowing the benches to harmonize with the space’s palette or introduce a personalized accent colour to the furniture and interior.

Form that follows the space

The wedge-shaped benches fit naturally into the curved lobby: the wider ends follow the curve of the wall, while the long sides open toward the centre of the space. The design and placement of the furniture create a sense of spaciousness in the lobby while leaving enough circulation space. In this way, the Palad REX-SLICE HARD benches support both the architecture and the functionality of the space.

At Anna Sahlsténin katu 13, the benches were fixed to the floor according to the client’s wishes. The design of the REX-SLICE HARD benches ensures stability even without permanent installation. This gives interior designers flexibility: the benches can be placed permanently or used as movable furniture, allowing them to be repositioned as needed.

REX-SLICE HARD stands the test of time and use

Sustainable design is a core principle of both the Anna Sahlsténin katu 13 project and the Palad design furniture brand. The REX-SLICE HARD benches are also an ecological choice: these long-lasting pieces are built to withstand heavy use.

Solid oak is a durable and responsibly sourced material that endures both time and daily wear. When necessary, the REX-SLICE HARD benches can be maintained and repaired, further extending their lifespan. The oak surface is treated with plant-based wood wax, ensuring easy care; minor scratches can be easily remedied by applying a light layer of wax.

The standard REX-SLICE HARD benches are available in three sizes and can also be customized to the client’s desired dimensions. Their classic design language adapts to a variety of interior styles while adding a sense of luxury. Benches can be grouped into seating arrangements or positioned along walls according to spatial and user needs.

The user-focused design and timeless form of the REX-SLICE HARD benches make them an ideal solution for public spaces. When design supports community interaction and endures over time, it creates an environment where encounters feel meaningful, and the space serves its users for decades.