MA-YA
Basic information
Project Title
Full project title
Category
Project Description
MA-YA is a modular indoor bench designed not only to fit into spaces but also to create new ones.
Its structure is totally transformable and allows everyone to socialize, but also to create small intimate spaces where people can focus in their own activities.
MA-YA is not just a bench, it is also a seat, a room inside a room, a meeting point for all.
Project Region
EU Programme or fund
Description of the project
Summary
MA-YA is an indoor seating system designed for relax areas in workplaces.
The strength of the project relies on the ability to fit to every kind of environment: from small coffee breaks’ spaces to bigger areas typical of large companies. Its flexibility is given by the total modularity of the body, composed of a seat element that is supported by a tubular metal structure, covered with a soft layer of a polymer obtained from sugar, a sustainable alternative to polyurethane foam.
The peculiarity of the seat is that it is complementary to the metal structure, made up of standard modules which allows compositions that are always different, according to different needs. The 60° angle between each module creates hexagonal configurations, inspired by the shape of the honeycombs. The hexagon is, by its very nature, the geometric figure where the perimeter – area ratio is most advantageous. This configuration allows the creation of a larger space using fewer materials.
Thanks to its modularity, people can decide how many seats can stay in each module: from 1 to 3, the space can be managed completely, in fact each seat can slide on a rail.
Just as a beehive, one of the most advanced social structures in nature, MA-YA enhances the human instinct to socialize.
However, in a working environment, it is necessary to respond to different needs for different people: this seating system is the best solution for everyone, that encourages socialization but also gives the possibility to create private spaces.
Key objectives for sustainability
MA-YA is a sustainable project because it is made of simple materials, such as steel, which is very strong and completely recyclable material, and PMVL, a polymer obtained from sugar, which is excellent for padding instead of polyurethane foam.
The sustainability guaranteed by this system also brings advantages in terms of space management: greater economy of space thanks to the use of standard modules that can be placed side by side in an infinite number of ways.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
MA-YA is a beautiful project because it has a minimalist aesthetic: its colours are inspired by those of a beehive, with a palette of warm, natural tones. Its shapes are inspired by an analogy with a mountain: in Japanese "山" (yama) means “mountain”. The movement of the backrest therefore has a strong aesthetic character and also represents the fluidity of the dripping honey.
The hexagonal configurations of the system are based on the structure of the beehive, in which bees work, live and collaborate: in the same way, with MA-YA people can build their environment, live in it and share it.
Key objectives for inclusion
Maya is an inclusive project because it allows everyone to use it, without excluding anyone. The bench induces people to socialise but at the same time allows them to have also some privacy. People can fit into this system as if they were in circle. People who are in wheelchairs can be included in this circle without any difficulty. MA-YA is a project designed for everyone and for every kind of need.
Innovative character
From an innovative perspective, MA-YA is a new concept of space interpretation, since its design guarantees a wide variety of different layouts. Harmony between colleagues is becoming increasingly significant, especially in large companies which for example organize events every year to keep the company together. MA-YA, if specifically shaped, is an everyday help, because it can encourage dialogue, get to know people and make the workplace less stressful.
