It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to unveil a remarkable partnership that blends artistry, craftsmanship, and outstanding design. ARCA, a company praised for its mastery of natural stone, has joined forces with the renowned Belgian architect and designer Vincent Van Duysen, to create GRAVITAS, a collection that transcends the limits of imagination. Van Duysen’s meticulous eye for detail and his ability to evoke emotion through design, have made him a true innovator in the world of architecture and interiors. His talent and working ethos strongly align with ARCA’s, resulting in a marriage of craft, functionality and expertise in the curation of natural materials.
Together, we engaged on a journey to create a furniture collection that not only exhibits exceptional design, but also reflects a deep appreciation of the beauty and durability of stone. Up to fifty hours of meticulous manufacturing per piece, reflect the harmony of machinery and human skillfulness.
I invite you to find inspiration within these pages, and enjoy the captivating appeal of GRAVITAS.
Sincerely,
Gerardo Cortina Wiechers FOUNDER & CEO, ARCA
ARCA is a leading purveyor of premium natural stone, wood and porcelain. With a legacy spanning over two decades, the company has earned a prominent reputation in the industry, attributed to its bar none commitment to impeccable quality, artisanal craftsmanship and groundbreaking innovation. This dedication translates into an unprecedented offering of samples and a handpicked selection of materials catering to prestigious projects worldwide.
The brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation extends beyond its products, contributing to a larger conversation within the intersection of luxury design and art, by pushing the limits of its category through special collections and collaborations with some of the most fascinating contemporary creative talents. Recent noteworthy partnerships include master minds such as Stefan Bruggeman, Héctor Esrawe, Gabriel Rico, Superflex, Alijca Kwade, Kelly Wearstler, Hank Willis Thomas and Vincent Van Duysen. These projects extend to renowned hospitality brands such as Four Seasons, Aman Resorts, Park Hyatt, St. Regis, alongside ultra-luxury villas in the Caribbean and residential interventions in the most idyllic destinations across the United States and Latin America. Through these architectural and interiors endeavors, ARCA has firmly become a genuine trailblazer in the realm of premium natural materials.
About ARCA
Discovering the Designer
“A significant part of the emotion in my work is rooted in my thoughtful consideration of the materials within a space.”
- Vincent Van Duysen
Design Profile and Philosophy
Vincent Van Duysen is an acclaimed Belgian architect and designer renowned for his timeless and human-centric approach to design. His namesake firm has worked on a variety of high-end residential, commercial and hospitality projects worldwide as well as product design and installations for numerous international brands. In 2016, Van Duysen was appointed as creative director of Molteni&C, reshaping their global image by designing flagship stores, exhibition stands and a series of new products. Van Duysen’s work, which continues to influence the world of architecture and interior design with his distinctive style and artistic vision, focuses on functionality, durability, and comfort.
Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards, including the Flemish Culture Prize for Design, Belgian Designer of the Year, a Mies van Der Rohe Award nomination, multiple AD100 and Elle Decor A-List recognitions, and the Henry van de Velde Lifetime Achievement Award. For many years, Van Duysen’s work has been appearing in a number of prestigious international publications. Starting from 1994, his projects and realizations have also been featured in different monographs among which those edited by renowned publishing house Thames & Hudson. A new personal look into the two homes of Vincent Van Duysen will materialize in Spring 2024 in the form of a Rizzoli New York volume, shot by François Halard.
Influence on Design Landscape
Text by Sarah Douglas, Editor-in-Chief Wallpaper*
Vincent Van Duysen is one of the most alluring architects and designers of our time. He set up his practice in Antwerp in 1990, and I first discovered Vincent’s work in 2003 when I was at the Architects’ Journal; I felt moved by the serenity of his designs and his holistic approach to architecture, interiors and design. A master of intuition, Vincent is meticulous, thorough and warm. His work is emotive, he plays with materiality – he is sensitive, sensual, generous and considered. His understanding between the balance of light and proportion, and his use of natural materials makes his work resonate with human emotion. He focuses on the essence of each project and creates something that is uniquely personal. This new collection of stone furniture, like everything that Vincent touches, has soul.
Boldly titled GRAVITAS, and created with Mexican stone specialist ARCA, the collection features 18 beautifully crafted pieces including chairs, stools, coffee and dining tables, expressed in 4 complementary stones sourced from Italy, Spain and Mexico. The deftness of Vincent’s hand can be seen in the elegance of the designs, and felt in the contrasting rough and polished surfaces, which gives the collection movement and sensuality, while still feeling primary and essential. Vincent is one of those rare people you meet where you feel your life has instantly been enriched. He is driven by people and has intelligence, integrity, authenticity, and a true joy for life and beauty. He once told me that he was ‘democratic, heart and soul’ and those qualities are encapsulated in everything that he does.
Early sketches by Vincent Van Duysen, depicting the initial concepts for the round, square, and rectangular dining table designs.
Vincent Van Duysen
Studio Insights
Vincent Van Duysen’s work is distinguished by a compendious effort, driven by a deep passion, a meticulous research, and a profound understanding of human needs. Over the course of his 30-year career, he has steadfastly held the belief that architecture is a vocation dedicated to serving humanity. Revolving around understanding how people inhabit their homes, Vincent refers to this work philosophy as the “art of living.” His aim is to uncover the nuances of how individuals live their spaces to seamlessly incorporate this knowledge into his work. Moreover, when it comes to scale and proportion, his creations often exude a striking monolithic nature, with recognizable classical proportions. Once the foundational geometrical structure of a project is in place, the subsequent step involves layering the appropriate materials in the right ratio, resulting in a dramatic and breathtaking space.
Van Duysen celebrates the exploration of abstraction, strategically placing volumes, objects, or architectural elements within a space. Observers may discern a reductionist approach to his work, where everything revolves around the interplay of emptiness and fullness, dark and light. He strongly believes that his creations stand in stark contrast to the clichéd interpretations of minimalism, and possess a distinct soul. By clearing away the clutter, his focus shifts towards a purity of aesthetics. In that sense, Vincent manages to channel timelessness, emotion, serenity, comfort, natural materials, texture, light and exquisite craftsmanship.
Vincent Van Duysen Studio Insights
Photo: Frederik Vercruysse
Van Duysen’s creative journey is marked by an insatiable pursuit for knowledge, spanning various disciplines. Inspiration for him is boundless, sourced from a diverse array of means of expression such as photography, art, literature, travel, galleries and films. This extensive spectrum of influences, bridging both past and present, provides the foundation for his creations, where he reflects his sensitivity and imagination through a distinct filter.
Collaboration stands as the cornerstone of his process, thriving in the company of others. Daily interactions and experiences with people serve as his primary wellspring of motiva-
tion, reinforced by the support of his team. This approach results in projects that are truly distinct and tailor-made, marked by a keen attention to detail.
A consistent element in his work is the seamless fusion of refined solidity and ethereal lightness, often woven together with a profound connection with the natural world. Raw materials stand out in his creations, impregnating both interiors and products, with a deep sense of serenity and wholeness. The emotional depth of his work compels the audience to reveal beauty and grandeur within his meticulous selection of materials.
Influences
“To me, the pursuit of balance in my designs is paramount, a journey to unravel complexity and reveal the essence. It is through this process that authenticity, simplicity, and purity can be attained.”
- Vincent Van Duysen
Vincent Van Duysen Studio Insights
Photo: Vincent Van Duysen
Casa M
by Vincent Van Duysen Architects. Melides, Portugal, 2019
Design Stories
“In this collection, I drew upon a wealth of creative references, shaping organic forms and pieces that seamlessly blend utilitarian function with a sculptural allure.”
- Vincent Van Duysen
Conceptualization and Ideation
Gravitas was one of the ancient Roman virtues that denoted “seriousness”. It also encompasses notions of weight, dignity, and importance, embodying both restraint and moral rigor, particularly evident in the solidity and robustness. For that reason, Van Duysen named the collection GRAVITAS, translating his profound inner sentiments and relationship with nature, space, and humanity into tangible forms. Vincent also echoes his design philosophy in this collaboration by drawing inspiration from the works of Isamu Noguchi, Anish Kapoor, James Turrell, and Roni Horn.
At its core, the collection is born from a fusion of passion, extensive research, and a deep understanding of human needs.
The enveloping, sensuous shapes also reflect his pursuit of a sense of security, akin to being cradled by these stone monoliths.
The resulting 18 pieces strike a harmonious balance between utilitarian and sculptural, emphasizing the innate beauty and tactile quality of the materials. Working with stone was distinctive for this project, as each selection played a crucial role in conveying the intended narrative. Treating the same material in two contrasting finishes —raw and polished— imbues the objects with a sense of dynamism, comparable to the balance found in nature.
The textured, rugged surfaces align with his reverence for natural materials, while the gleaming, smooth finishes create an optical illusion of weightlessness and boundlessness, elevating the materials to the forefront of the design narrative.
Creative Explorations of Gravitas
Vincent Van Duysen skillfuly integrates a unique selection of materials. Porfido stone and Carrara marble —from Italy—, harmonize contemporary aesthetics with the timeless appeal of natural stone. The Cafecina stone from Spain, and Recinto volcanic stone from Mexico were incorporated, further enriching the selection with their distinctive hues and properties that lend a captivating dimension to the design. The variations of textures in the pieces pay homage to the beauty of nature, ranging from rough tactility to smooth surfaces, creating a visual interplay of lightness and infinity. This dual treatment of the same material infuses the
objects with a dialogue of textures and finishes. Working closely with ARCA enabled Van Duysen and his team to intimately understand the materials, an invaluable foundation for crafting such a collection. That duality extends seamlessly into the broader design narrative, where Vincent Van Duysen orchestrated a realm of captivating radical drama. The tactile allure of stone juxtaposed against black backgrounds and volcanic gravel flooring, create a powerful visual statement. This interplay between textures, natural elements, and human interaction becomes the core of the collaboration concept.
Creative Construction
Material Selection and Application
The series as a whole carries the specific mark of the stones from which it was carved, along with its own distinctive story, texture, and character. Vincent Van Duysen selected each one of them with care from the extensive ARCA catalog, in order to effectively reflect the enduring beauty and adaptability of these materials. Porfido, Cafecina, Recinto, and Carrara marble were chosen for their unmatched beauty and their ability to convey an exhilarating fusion of substance and artistic expression.
Embarking on a journey through the ancient quarries of Carrara, where the Greeks fittingly christened it ‘marble’ —meaning ‘shining stone’— is an enchanting experience. Perched 900 meters high in the Polvaccio Basin, Italy, the white gold of the Apuan Alps emanates its own celestial glow. These historic sites were frequented by artists such as Michelangelo, who fastidiously selected blocks for iconic masterpieces like the tomb of Julius II and the Pietà.
Today, artists like Jan Fabre and Maurizio Cattelan are still drawn here, lured by the unparalleled quality of the marble. It is from this very site that the blocks for GRAVITAS were secured. This one-of-a-kind stone provides a white canvas embellished with delicate veining, granting an aura of sophistication and complexity to each piece.
Recinto: Strength in Simplicity, Subtle Power.
Hailing from the volcanic soils of Mexico, Recinto has a unique blend of strength and understated beauty. Born from swiftly solidifying magma, it features a distinctive black hue and porous texture. Its use dates back to the pre-Hispanic era, being found in important ceremonial pieces such as the Calendario Azteca, exhibited in the monumental National Museum of Anthropology, in Mexico City. Artisans extract large, functional pieces from quarries called “Saque de piedra”. That labor is often a family tradition, where knowledge is passed down through generations to craft marvelous designs. Prime quarries, like those near Popocatépetl volcano, yield exceptional crafting material, as seen in GRAVITAS. The resulting pieces, surprisingly smooth despite the rugged material, reflect years of tradition and a deep connection to Mexico’s natural landscape.
“Vincent Van Duysen’s work embodies a philosophy that aligns perfectly with our own: a deep appreciation for the intrinsic beauty of natural materials. Together, we’ve created a collection that pays tribute to the power and grace of stone.”
From the slopes of the Spanish Pyrenees comes Cafecina, a warm, earthy-toned stone that radiates opulence. The quarries in this region yield top-grade sandstone, boasting various shades of brown that mirror its natural origins. Throughout history, this exquisite stone has graced a diverse range of architectural wonders, from historic cathedrals and fortifications to modern urban developments, imbuing each with a sense of comfort and harmony.
Cafecina is renowned for its exceptional quality and striking natural beauty. The finegrained texture of the stone selected for this collaboration allows an intricate detailing in the sculptural element of the design.
Porfido: Ancient Majesty, Enduring Presence.
Porfido has strong and timeless roots that may be traced back to ancient Roman buildings. What sets it apart is its characteristic texture, which is composed of large, well-defined crystals embedded in a finer-grained matrix. This rock formation is renowned for its striking blend of colors, ranging from deep reds and purples to earthy browns and greens. This unique color palette makes Porfido an exceptional choice for GRAVITAS.
The stones extracted from the Bolzano and Brescia areas in Italy, have an extraordinary speckled texture. Each item in this collection displaying this material stands out due to its striking and powerful presence.
Porfido’s enduring beauty and robustness make it a symbol of Italian craftsmanship and a statement of the timeless appeal and quality of this exceptional stone.
The art of defining an aesthetic for stone furniture is a journey of respect, collaboration, and creativity. It requires a deep appreciation for the raw beauty of natural stone, tempered by Van Duysen’s vision and skill. Every curve, every contour, and every facet must not only be visually captivating but also serve a purpose. Within GRAVITAS, the stone’s palette unfolds like a vivid tapestry of Earth’s own artistry. Every ARCA material has a unique story to tell in a complex interplay of textures and colors. From the calm, serene tones of Carrara to the warm, anchoring hues of Cafecina to the magnetic tones and textures of Recinto, and the expressiveness of Porfido, this selection not only catches the eye but also seamlessly fits into Vincent´s creative concept.
The collection’s overall aesthetics serve as a monument to nature’s enduring splendor and exceptional craftsmanship. Each piece stands as an evidence of the artistry, requiring a total production time of 50 hours. Among these, 40 are dedicated to skilled manual labor, while 10 involve precision machinery.
The design of Vincent Van Duysen and the alchemy of raw and natural materials are united to produce furniture with a strong allure and dramatic sculptural statements.
Defining an Aesthetic
Gravitas Unveiled
Elegant Echoes
The intense burgundy Porfido Chair stands as a testament to the exquisite beauty of natural materials. Opposite Page: The addition of Cafecina’s warm hues brings an unexpected aura to the Side Table B.
Polished Perfection
The Dining Table Round stands as an evidence of extraordinary elegance and durability, achieved through the combination of polished and rough surfaces. Opposite Page: Library Modules D, B, and A can be arranged as a cohesive set or stand alone as individual sculptural pieces.
Sculpted Splendor
Opposite Page: The enduring strength and exquisite beauty of Carrara Marble magnifies the design of the pieces. This page: The dark, speckled sheen of Recinto in the Coffee Table C exudes a powerful and dramatic aura.
Stone and
Style
Opposite Page: The narrative of GRAVITAS explores the dynamic interplay between textures, natural elements, and human interaction. This page: Each piece underwent a total of 50 hours of manufacturing, 40 hours were dedicated to manual labor and 10 hours to machinery.
Living with Luxury
The varying textures of the pieces enable us to truly appreciate the beauty inherent to nature. The rough surfaces offer a tactile experience, while the smooth and glossy surfaces evoke a sense of lightness and infinity.
Timeless Touch
Opposite Page: The texture of the Cafecina Stool highlights the masterful craftsmanship that breathed life into these pieces. This page: Library Module D exemplifies the harmonious fusion of artistic expression and functional design.
Gravitas Collection
Chair 1
Material: Cafecina, Recinto, Porfido, Carrara
Measures: W 23” x L 23.5” x H 31.5”
Measures: W 23”
Chaise Lounge
Material: Cafecina, Carrara, Recinto, Porfido
x L 59” x H 31”
Material: Carrara, Cafecina, Porfido, Recinto Measures: W 23.5” x L 23.5” x H 11.8”
Material: Cafecina, Recinto, Carrara, Porfido Measures: W 23.5” x L 47” x H 11.8”
Coffee Table C
Material: Recinto, Carrara, Cafecina, Porfido
Measures: W 23.5” x L 74.5” x H 11.8”
Dining Table Round
Material: Porfido, Cafecina, Recinto, Carrara
Measures:
W 55” x L 55” x H 28.5”
Dining Table Square
Measures:
Material: Cafecina, Recinto, Carrara, Porfido
W 55” x L 55” x H 28.5”
Dining Table
Rectangular
Material: Porfido, Cafecina, Carrara, Recinto
Measures: W 55” x L 118” x H 28.5”
Gravitas Collection
Measures: W 21.25” x L 21.25” x H 79”
Material: Carrara, Porfido, Recinto, Cafecina
Library Module B
Material: Carrara, Cafecina, Recinto, Porfido
Measures: W 21.25” x L 21.25” x H 60.25”
Gravitas Collection
Library Module C
Measures: W
Material: Recinto, Carrara, Cafecina, Porfido
21.25” x L 21.25” x H 41.75”
Material: Porfido, Recinto, Carrara, Cafecina
Measures: W 21.25” x L 21.25” x H 23”
Library Module E
Material: Recinto, Cafecina, Porfido, Carrara
Measures: W 21.25” x L 45” x H 23”
Material: Cafecina, Porfido, Recinto, Carrara
Measures: W 24.5” x L 27.5” x H 29”
Material: Porfido, Carrara, Recinto, Cafecina
Measures: W 11.8” x L 23.5” x H 13.75”
Measures: W 11.8” x L 23.5” x H 19.7”
Material: Carrara, Porfido, Recinto, Cafecina
Material: Recinto, Porfido, Carrara, Cafecina Measures: W 31.5” x L 19.7” x H 19.7”
Material: Recinto, Porfido, Carrara, Cafecina
Measures: W 17.75” x L 17.75” x H 18”
Text by Vincent Van Duysen
Collaborating with ARCA has been a truly enriching experience. Their deep understanding of my aesthetic and universe was evident in the selection of stones they offered, perfectly aligning with my vision. It was a pleasure to explore new stones with their expertise guiding the way. The collaboration unfolded seamlessly, marked by mutual respect and a fluid exchange of ideas. Their trust in granting me creative freedom for this project allowed me to delve into a deeply personal concept. Working alongside ARCA felt like having the best stone specialists by my side. Their comprehensive knowledge of every nuance of the materials proved invaluable in shaping this collection. I aimed for the pieces to exude a timeless quality, echoing the exquisite beauty of nature. The campaign, in turn, seeks to highlight the inherent allure of the stone, emphasizing the interplay between smooth and rough surfaces, polished and hammered finishes. These monumental creations, with their monolithic presence, evoke a profound sense of tranquility. The visuals of the collaboration serve as a complement of the outline of the pieces that convey a sense of serenity. This helps to my ultimate aspiration for this collection to resonate with people on an emotional level. Finally, knowing that this project allows me to translate my deep passion and fascination for natural materials is immensely gratifying.
Insights
and Reflections
Design Narratives
The Artistry of ARCA
In the world of art and design, very few materials evoke both a sense of timeless elegance and enduring beauty, in the way that natural stone does. Shaped by years of geological transformation processes, every piece develops unique properties and potential. At ARCA, we have a deep understanding of it, allowing us to unveil each stone’s hidden beauty. We seek to bridge the gap between the inherent magnificence of natural stone and creative concepts; the devotion we profess in every production comprises a profound respect for the material itself and a state-of-the-art craftsmanship. Each product is the result of love and a symbol of the close connection between the maker and the soul of the stone. Materiality and artistry are more than just abstract concepts; they are the essence of everything we do. They stand for our dedication, our respect to nature, for bringing out the latent potential of each stone, and infusing each item with a level of mastery that can only be achieved by expert, passionate hands. We create timeless pieces that stand as a tribute to organic beauty and human skill.
Materiality and Craftsmanship
In the world of design, materials tell stories. At ARCA, we go beyond supplying raw materials: we empower creative talent to craft with a purpose. Natural stone, wood and porcelain, with its enduring allure and inherent personality, serve as the foundation for bringing creative visions to life. The key to supporting architects and interior designers lies in comprehending their creativity and aesthetics. Each project has its essence, its story, and its uniqueness. Translating the designer’s vision into a real life project is our driving force.
Design Destinations
The Artistry of ARCA
Temple of Creativity
Designed by Esrawe Studio, ARCA’s Design Center in Guadalajara, Mexico, emerges as a hub of creativity and a source of a wide range of premium natural materials.
Photo: César Béjar
Photo: César Béjar
At ARCA we take pride in our role as collaborators rather than just traders. Our locations across Mexico and the United States serve as inspiration spaces for the creative community to immerse themselves, while offering our expertise in selecting the right stone for each project’s needs. At our showrooms and through our concierge service, each one of our clients can reach us with an idea and rest assured they’ll find the perfect solution across our wide range of materials, textures, colors, and patterns. From our Design Center in Guadalajara to our other facilities in Monterrey, Mexico City, and Miami, we invite creatives to convey concepts, trigger emotions and inspire.
Additionally, our e-commerce platform offers the same high-quality materials and service that define us, enabling our clients to unlock their imagination and explore the creative possibilities with our materials.
Artistic Fusion
Designed by Esrawe Studio and Superflex, ARCA Wynwood, offers a gallery-like experience. The vibrant artwork exterior drives visitors to step into a spring of natural and technological materials.
Where to Find the Collection
ARCA Wynwood
260 NW 27th St, Miami
Florida, 33127, United States
+1 786-633-5931
ARCA Mexico City
Carr. México-Toluca 2900
Lomas de Bezares, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, 11910, Mexico
+52 55-1285-7200
ARCA Online
arcaww.com concierge@arcaww.com
IG: @arca.ww
Vincent Van Duysen Architects
vincentvanduysen.com
info@vincentvanduysen.com
IG: @vincentvanduysenarchitects
Resources and Contacts
Credits
Creative Direction: Vincent Van Duysen Flavien Servaes
