Urbi et Orbi is a company specializing in the design and production of concrete furniture elements, with a focus on sinks, lighting, wall coverings, and home decor accessories. Founded in Athens in 2012, the company stands out for its innovative use of concrete, transforming it into unique and functional design objects. Urbi et Orbi has established a strong international presence, participating in trade fairs and collaborating with industry professionals.
Urbi et Orbi: Concrete Design for Contemporary Interiors
The Urbi et Orbi atelier represents a new trend in the design of concrete objects. The primary material is concrete, shaped to achieve form, color, texture, and smoothness, resulting in products that merge aesthetics and functionality. The product range includes sinks, lighting, wall coverings, furniture, and home decor accessories. Among the company’s most iconic collections is the Medius Terra line, a celebration of Mediterranean essence. This collection embodies the spirit of the Mediterranean, drawing inspiration from the Genius Loci and paying homage to the sunlit landscapes, vibrant cultures, and timeless traditions of the region. The distinctive nature of "Medius Terra" arises from the synergy of three contributing designers: Gian Paolo Venier of OTTO Studio, Sotiris Lazou Design Studio, and CTRLZAK.
Innovation and Experimentation in Concrete Design
The company is continually engaged in experimenting with innovative techniques and developing new shades of color, creating distinctive finishes such as terrazzo and sand. For each product category, Urbi et Orbi adheres to the directives established by the European Union, ensuring high-quality standards through continuous checks. Urbi et Orbi employs a special blend of glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). These materials not only provide exceptional strength and durability but also enable extraordinary freedom in designing shapes and details. The production process includes meticulous polishing and the use of natural pigments to achieve customized finishes like terrazzo or sand effects. Each product is handmade, ensuring uniqueness and artisanal quality. One of Urbi et Orbi’s most significant initiatives is the "Zero Waste" project, which represents a leap forward in adopting sustainable practices. Through the recovery of excess materials generated during production, the company has successfully created new functional and decorative objects, minimizing waste. This circular philosophy not only optimizes resources but also contributes to a more responsible and environmentally friendly approach to contemporary design.