Steel

Steel with precision and durability 

At Form & Refine, we work with steel according to the same philosophy that guides all our materials: with respect for the raw material, an understanding of craftsmanship, and a desire to create products that can last. Strong and honest, steel can be shaped with great precision and expressed through a simple, Nordic design language. Our steel products are made by combining modern production technology with skilled craftsmanship. The result is the Taper Collection, where the strength of steel, precise craftsmanship, and Nordic design come together in a clear and considered expression. 

A material with many possibilities 

Steel is known for its strength, durability, and long lifespan, while also offering freedom in how it can be shaped. A flat sheet of steel may appear simple and almost flexible, but once it is bent, the material gains considerable strength and stability. The subtle bends and folds found throughout our designs are therefore more than aesthetic details. They form an integral part of the construction and give the products their strength and load-bearing capacity. This can be seen in the Taper Shelf 40 x 66, where carefully shaped steel creates both a light expression and a strong construction. The strength of steel is also reflected in its appearance. Its clean lines and precise expression give it a distinct character, creating a natural contrast with the warmth, tactility, and organic qualities of wood.  

From steel sheet to finished product 

The production process begins with large sheets of steel. Each component is laser-cut with precision to make efficient use of the material. After cutting, the surface is carefully brushed to create the characteristic finish of brushed stainless steel, before the components are bent into their final shapes and assembled. Small screws are then carefully fitted by hand, and every product undergoes thorough quality control before leaving the workshop. We recognise that the production of steel can often be associated with a higher environmental impact than materials such as wood. At the same time, steel is a strong and highly durable material that supports long product lifetimes and robust construction. With the right handling, steel also has the potential to be recycled and reintroduced into new production without losing its inherent material properties. As our work with steel continues, we are working to strengthen our understanding of the material through closer dialogue with producers and improved documentation of production processes. 

Craftsmanship with precision

Modern technology and skilled craftsmanship come together in a production process defined by precision, care, and attention to detail. While laser cutting and advanced machinery ensure a high level of accuracy, many of the finishing and assembly processes are still carried out by hand. This attention to detail is particularly important when working with raw steel, as there is no layer of paint or coating to conceal imperfections. Every cut, edge, bend, and connection remains visible, making the quality of the craftsmanship an integral part of the final expression.

Design with respect for the material

When we design with steel, we take our starting point in the qualities of the material rather than trying to change them. We work with bends, cut-outs, and simple constructions that bring out the strength and character of steel, while allowing the production process to become part of the design. In the Taper Console & Shoe Rack, for example, the strength of steel allows for a slim and functional structure that maintains a sense of visual lightness.