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REPUBLIC OF II BY IV

International industrial design studio based in Toronto, Canada. It was founded by the owners of II BY IV DESIGN, Dan Menchions and Keith Rushbrook. Their experience as interior designers has led them to receive over 50 awards since 2012; they have been internationally recognized as Designers of the Year five times and declared one of the top 50 retail designers in the world. Their work demonstrates an interpretation of emerging consumer lifestyles, attitudes, and expectations.

How did the collaboration with OISIDE come about?

Our collaboration with OISIDE began with an immediate appreciation for their brand, which we saw as a promising opportunity for a dynamic partnership between OISIDE and REPUBLIC OF II BY IV.

In what way did you think that collaborating with this company could be interesting for you?

Partnering with OISIDE has been a tremendous opportunity for us, as they have not only brought exceptional craftsmanship and design to the table but have also been invaluable mentors throughout the process. We feel honoured to have OISIDE as our debut partner in this journey, and their expertise has inspired and guided us as a studio.

What makes OISIDE different in terms of the other outdoor furniture companies out there?

In our experience working with the OISIDE team, it was clear from the outset that they are dedicated to pushing boundaries—creating pieces that challenge conventional construction methods while preserving the integrity of their design vision. Their meticulous attention to detail, particularly in crafting furniture that can withstand harsh weather conditions, sets them apart. From selecting premium materials to incorporating advanced technical elements—like thermo-sealed seams to prevent moisture penetration and powder-coated aluminum structures to resist corrosion OISIDE consistently goes beyond what is typically offered in the market. This combination of expertise and craftsmanship is what makes this family run company a true leader in their field.

What did you want to bring to the table with this collaboration?

With the Sofi Collection, we aimed to bring a sense of refined sophistication to outdoor furniture, drawing inspiration from the beauty of organic forms. The collection’s distinctive curves evident in both the upholstered components and the wooden elements echo the natural world, creating a harmonious blend of form and function. The gently rounded edges of the sofas are a deliberate reflection of nature’s fluidity, offering a design that feels both timeless and contemporary.

What new approach does REPUBLIC bring to the OISIDE catalogue?

With the Sofi Collection, we sought to challenge the status quo and introduce a fresh, contrasting perspective to the OISIDE catalogue. Departing from rigid geometry and straight lines, we aimed to complement their existing pieces with more fluid, curvaceous forms. This interplay of styles creates a dynamic dialogue within the collection, offering potential buyers a broader range of aesthetic choices.

What materials have you worked with and with what aims?

We have worked with Iroko wood, aluminum, porcelain, and weather-resistant textiles. Each of these materials offers exceptional durability against the elements, ensuring longevity and resilience. Additionally, they provide versatility for customization while maintaining an elegant aesthetic.

Do these collections represent a change of direction or a new style for OISIDE?

The Sofi Collection marks a new direction for OISIDE, introducing a sense of organic fluidity to their existing range. In collaboration with OISIDE, our design team meticulously worked to refine the flowing form of the backrest in both the Sofa and Lounge Chair. This design element, while presenting challenges, also led to innovations in crafting upholstered pieces that can endure the demands of outdoor environments.

What type of new contract or residential projects do you think OISIDE will be used for after this evolutionary step forwards?

The outdoor sofas in the Sofi Collection, both in individual and larger configurations, are designed with substantial, voluminous proportions that make them ideal for expansive, open environments within the hospitality and residential sectors. Their versatile design allows for seamless integration with a variety of tables, ranging from unique attachments to the sofas themselves to diverse options for side and coffee tables.