It is precisely that spirit of reuse and recontextualisation that makes Serre’s furniture feel like an extension of her brand. “The intention was clearly to explore a similar approach to Marine’s upcycled fashion design, but with furniture,” said Van Peteghem. “We first identify and select elements we want to splice together in a specific way, then we design them in 3D to verify materials, proportions and construction process. We source each element across second-hand markets (from the internet to flea markets) while continuously updating the 3D model accordingly, after this, we then make assembly plans and start discussing the fabrication process in detail with our manufacturers. This is where real physical parameters come into play, like weight and stability”, he explained.
In recent seasons, Serre has charted new territory when it comes to upcycling on the catwalk — dreaming up patchwork ‘couture’ gowns made of scuba suits or dog harnesses, for example — which may be why furniture feels like such a natural step forward. “It came quite naturally to me to dive into furniture. Even before starting fashion, I asked myself if I wanted to make furniture or garments, as both have a close link with the human body,” said Serre. According to Van Peteghem, the response has been mixed when it comes to the Marine Serre furniture, which may not necessarily be a bad thing. “Most people seemed a little bit disturbed or intrigued by this work, and this is a positive outcome I think, to be able to create this kind of emotion.”
“It was logical to work with Avoir in the process of finding the right style of furniture and their meanings, their proportion, and their making, as it was important to have a luxury finished product,” explained Serre. “It was essential to understand each other well in order to find the right balance”. For now, she’s opting not to commercialise the collaboration, a fact that rings true with one of the oldest tricks in fashion’s book: that scarcity and exclusivity ultimately reign.