Poutama is a bi-cultural student desk for future Unitec design students.
New Zealand’s unique bi-culturalism isn’t apparent in many of the things we see around us, particularly in interior spaces. Poutama goes some way to addressing this by appropriately applying the Steps of Knowledge Maori motif in a culturally sensitive and considered way.
Made of TransTex plywood, traditionally a commercial vehicle decking material, the desk utilises both the textured and opposing smooth side of the panel to provide contrast. This material was also chosen for its complimentary aesthetic. The desk comes in two heights to suit different students of different disciplines, and the student’s bag functions as their storage unit while it is hanging on the integrated hook.
Photography by Céline Sayé