These configurable, modular ottomans, designed for human connection, make their debut at 3daysofdesign
For a touch of some much–needed playfulness, look to Hem’s recent release of its Palma Poufs. Designed by Kusheda Mensah, the paw–like pieces are graphic, plump and a little cheeky but also fulfil an important role of encouraging connection and conversation.
The concept for Palma originated in Mensah’s earlier work, Mutual I, where she introduced hand–like structures as both residential and public sculptures in an exploration of design as a tool for connection. Now evolving into her first product collection in partnership with Hem, the Palma Pouf’s organic forms explore a similar theme.
“Back in 2018, I launched a collection called Mutual, which explored the idea that we can find common ground with one another through shared space. That idea really stayed with me. I wanted to create pieces that didn’t just live in a room, but that shaped how people experience that room, how they interact, how they feel, how they connect,” explains the British-Ghanaian designer. “I used sculptural forms inspired by the human body as a way to soften or invite interaction through tactile fabrics, encouraging better social behaviours through design. Palma continues that thinking in its playfulness. The shapes are wacky accents in a room, but functional.”
Launched during 3daysofdesign in Copenhagen, the organically shaped poufs are generous enough to accommodate multiple sitters, each limb inviting inward seating to encourage closeness and conversation within a singular module or among a configuration.
Hem picked lush Kvadrat fabrics, chunky bouclé and Swedish leather from Elmo for the upholstery. “There is enough variation to suit different spaces, while letting the form stay in focus,” says Petrus Palmér, Hem’s founder and CEO. “Kusheda’s work has this rare mix of boldness and warmth. It’s sculptural and expressive, but also invites closeness and interaction. It’s a rare quality today. We want people to use the poufs freely; move them around and sit however they like. They’re not meant to be precious. They’re meant to be used.”
For Mensah, the collaboration with Hem presented an opportunity to pursue her interest in how design can shape our behaviour. “I think a lot about how we move through space, alone and together. And how objects or environments can either support or disrupt those interactions,” she explains. “I’m especially interested in how we design for care, for connection and for cultural sensitivity. Design isn’t just about what something looks like; it’s about how it invites, includes, holds or challenges.”
Campaign Imagery by Erik Wåhlström
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