Thermally-modified American red oak.

jalees (Arabic); adjective: being seated securely in place; noun: table companion.

Designed to recognize the primitive characteristics of outdoor benches found around the UAE and in every Emirati home, this seating design pays tribute to its minimal structure and attributes.

The essential vertical and horizontal red oak members have inspired the minimalist design of this outdoor bench creating an appealing modern interpretation.

Taking into consideration the post-COVID social distancing requirements, this bench creates a flexible seating system for all users. Contrasting the horizontal octagonal thermally-modified American red oak members are circular seats with metal inserts that slide along the length of the bench to create social distancing when needed between strangers and to bring family together at the same time. Additional seats could be added or removed from the bench according to the requirements of the user.

Contrasting the natural hardwood is a playful pop of colour – yellow - that is minimally added on the interior of the bench both for visual aesthetic and structural purposes, along with three metal arches to stop the seats from moving further along the bench.

Aljoud Lootah is an Emirati designer who has gained international acclaim, particularly after the establishment of her studio in 2014. Since its foundation, the studio has preserved its unique approach by focusing on the idea of contrasts in form and function while distinctly interpreting the Emirati culture and artisanal techniques through contemporary design.

Her creative drive comes from a passion for detail and experimental approaches to materials and aesthetics. This emphasis has resulted in a body of work that is functional, timeless and unique and which tells the story of Aljoud's background and history.

The 0.096 cubic metres of thermally-modified red oak used to make Aljoud's bench would be replaced in the US hardwood forest through natural growth in just 0.1 seconds. For the lifetime of the piece, the red oak in the Jalees bench will keep just under 60 kg of CO2 equivalent out of the atmosphere.

How to use

This bench includes 2 seats that are 2 meters apart to ensure safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the bench is designed in a way where the seats, as well as small tables, can actually slide to be placed closer for use after the pandemic

Photography by Natelee Cocks