Atomare

But it is the Omega Chair & Desk that really showcases Atomare's twin strengths: the structures are as architectural as a bridge; and their shape and color emphasize the utility (and the beauty of utility) of design. The Omega Desk is formed from one single bend surface; this gives it "a very light and open appeal." And the Omega Chair operates on the same principle (with a little cheating-compare it to the Spring Chair, which is a purist in this sense). The desk's smooth expanse has something in common with the Milk Desk-a glorious uninterrupted surface on which to lay everything out. The Omega Desk does have two storage shelves beneath its desk top, in case you need the things that make minimalism difficult to maintain at work. The Omega Chair nestles into its companion like a child's jigsaw puzzle or like one of those curved wooden cubbies that hide secret drawers. All this talk of curves and area may make the Omega Desk & Chair sound rather serious; however, the pair actually revels in "graphic expression."

The orange pop of color in all the seams contrasts vividly with the gleaming white of the Omega's surfaces. They remind me of the playfulness of a Romero Britto painting, as well as the simple beauty of a Chinese character. I like to think of the Omega Desk & Chair as a calligraphic symbol from the future, which would make Atomare the creator of a new language and Munscher its most eminent writer. This is a fitting metaphor for the Omega Desk & Chair, as they seem invented to inspire creation-not exactly the work space of accountants! The Omega Desk & Chair should be the reception area standard at modern art museums and web design firms. Pipe in a little Musak Devo or Depeche Mode to accompany the Omega and you'll get a truly transformative, if a little off-beat, welcome.