3form has introduced Parallel, a collection of linear patterns designed to resemble reeded and textured glass. Positioned as a lower-cost alternative to traditional glass, Parallel is applied to 3form's Varia material platform.
The collection includes four patterns: Cadence, Fino, Vista and Tribeca. These patterns add linear texture to applications such as partitions, office fronts, and ceiling and wall features. Each pattern differs in light refraction, level of obscurity, depth and translucency, allowing designers to choose a level of privacy and light transmission suited to a given application.
In each pattern, light passing through the material is refracted and shifted by the vertical texture, altering how objects and light appear behind the panel depending on viewing angle and surrounding light conditions.
Ryan Smith, Chief Creative Officer at 3form, said reeded glass has long been used by designers because it provides privacy while still allowing natural light through, and that Parallel aims to reproduce this effect using a material that can be shaped and installed in situations where glass would be more difficult to use.
Pattern specifications:
- Cadence: ½ inch repeat, ⅛ inch depth, producing a double-vision effect similar to blinds or shades.
- Fino: ⅛ inch linear repeat with 0.5mm-deep grooves, producing a moiré effect.
- Vista: 12mm undulating repeat at 1mm depth, producing a ripple effect that diffuses light.
- Tribeca: a two-sided pattern with a 2 inch front repeat and 1 inch back repeat, each 1mm deep; the opposing textures combine into a tartan-like pattern that provides the highest level of privacy in the collection.
The patterns are available in a clear colorway and can be produced in other colors, ranging from muted blues, greens and neutrals to more saturated colors that increase privacy and alter the appearance of each pattern.
All four patterns are available in Varia. Tribeca is also available in etched glass. Some Parallel patterns are also available in coordinating textures on 3form's Glass, Sola Felt and Profile product lines.
Dax Pettibone, a designer at 3form, said none of the four patterns are intended to stand out on their own, but any could become a focal point within a room.
The material can be cut, shaped and suspended using limited hardware, and is designed to keep its texture when heat-formed, which allows it to be used in dimensional applications. 3form says the material is intended for use in workplace, healthcare, hospitality and education settings due to its light-diffusing and privacy characteristics.
