Refractory
Founded by Angie West from Texas and Alberto Vélez from Bogotá, the studio embraces a fascination with materiality, a deep respect for craft as an integral aspect of design, and an obligation to participate in the shepherding of American making. Based upon a sense that there are stories as-yet untold in design, the work is both provocative and exploratory. The studio conceives, produces, and purveys rigorously crafted works in a language distinct from American and contemporary design landscapes. Layering traditional methods with modern tools, Refractory is both an evolution and an extension of a community of artisans who seek to create in a space where art meets collectible design.
THE BRAND
Refractory is a furniture, lighting and objects brand and design studio based in Chicago.
Refractory
The Loma Console, designed by Refractory. The console is made of cast bronze material with a jet black finish, giving it a unique and elegant look. The Loma Console is a sculptural table entirely cast in bronze. With diverse form features on every side, it can be oriented alternatively.
Refractory
The Tributary Console, designed by Refractory. The console is made of cast bronze material with a cinder finish, giving it a unique and elegant look. The cast bronze Tributary Console is an immense work of functional sculpture.
Refractory
The Promontory Cocktail Table, designed by Refractory, is an asymmetric arrangement of cast bronze bases holding a cast glass top. A bronze plate joins the legs and is covered by a layer of suede as it supports the glass.
Refractory
The Scimitar Dining table, designed by Refractory, is a large rectangular wood top with sloping edges, supported by two monumental cast bronze table-ends that flow in the legs featuring the bison skin texture.
Refractory
The Tributary Dining Table, designed by Refractory, is an exploration realized in two cast bronze blades. Arranged in a perpendicular disposition, the bases each split at one end into an open cuff of brightened bronze and support a solid Raven oak.
Refractory
The Promontory Dining Table, a masterwork of design by Refractory, is a veritable symphony of materials and form. Its Mustang oak top, suffused with rich and earthy warmth, strikes a harmonious contrast with the sleek, cast bronze base that anchors it. The base, formed of two daring, asymmetrical shield-like forms, is a bold expression of sculptural elegance that seems to soar upwards like a great bird in flight. The otter finish that adorns it lends the base a soft, luminous sheen that is both modern and timeless.
