Arjen van der Plas
Product Design BDes
HKU Utrecht School Of The Arts
Graduates: 2026
Specialisms: Furniture / Product Design
My location: Den Haag, Netherlands
Arjen van der Plas
First Name: Arjen
Last Name: van der Plas
University / College: HKU Utrecht School Of The Arts
Course / Program: Product Design BDes
Graduates: 2026
Specialisms: Furniture / Product Design
My Location: Den Haag, Netherlands
Website: Click To See Website
About
I am Arjen van der Plas, a graduating Product Designer from the HKU University of the Arts Utrecht. My work explores the ancient craft of steam bending wood — pushing the material to its limits to find forms that are first and foremost beautiful, regardless of function.
The result is a collection of six pieces: a writing desk, a cabinet, a desk chair, a newspaper rack, a wall cabinet, and a lounge chair — each shaped by the natural curves that only steam and pressure can coax from wood. Together they speak of patience, process, and the quiet intelligence of the hand. I call myself a craftsman, because the title carries what the work demands: deep knowledge, curiosity, and a willingness to keep learning.
This project was born from a fascination with steam-bent wood — a nearly forgotten craft. Building on earlier experience recreating a Mid Century Wicker Rocking Chair, the desire grew to explore the technique further and immerse myself in it completely. Through experimenting with bends, joints and forms, a series of furniture pieces and test objects emerged: a desk, a chair, a lounge chair, a cabinet, a hanging cabinet, a side table and a serving tray. The forms and joints were shaped by four key considerations: the time available within a single academic year, the structural stability achievable through bending, a preference for elegant and refined curves, and a constant pursuit of the lightest possible construction. Together they showcase the versatility of bent wood — light, strong and elegant, made by hand and with respect for the material.
Competitions
