Underneath a Surface

Underneath A Surface is a material study of linoleum, using hidden elements from its production process and history. The aim of designer Kita Keus is to raise the material from the floor to showcase it as a precious and versatile natural resource for a wide variety of applications.

During Keus’ internship at Forbo, she was fascinated by their archive in which a rich history of linoleum is stored. Printing blocks, constructed from wooden blocks and nails, were dipped into a colour and stamped onto the linoleum surface. Keus used these blocks and pressed them into the fresh neutral mixture of linoleum. In the pilot factory of Forbo, this mixture is referred to as ‘cookie’. This cookie is the base of all linoleum, consisting of a mixture of pine resin, flaxseed oil, wood flour and limestone.

By hanging the samples, the effects of light and texture become clear and unveil the surprising nuances of the material. Light and perspective highlight the delicate and natural identity of the material.