Masterly Milan X Eric Sloot
Inspired by classic pieces of furniture such as the belly cabinet, the secretary desk and the clock, Eric designs contemporary furniture with a recognisable and familiar form, but executed in a surprisingly innovative way. For example, the rounded ‘belly’ is incorporated into the cabinets, and the classic clock is given a modern twist.
The furniture is handcrafted in the designer’s own workshop. Eric uses fast-growing poplar wood from Brabant. This wood is processed sustainably, using low-formaldehyde glue and a bio-based, transparent varnish.
BELLI COLLECTION
FRANCY
The Francy cabinet is inspired by the classic ‘belly’ cabinet belonging to an old and dear friend of Eric’s: Francy. The characteristic shape with its rounded ‘belly’ and refined details are typical of this traditional piece of furniture. Drawing on this inspiration, Eric developed a contemporary interpretation, retaining the recognisable silhouette and constructing it from wooden slats.
As well as being a real eye-catcher in any interior, the cabinet is also practical to use. It features two glass doors with plenty storage space and three drawers in the ‘belly’. The dimensions are 60 × 135 × 195 cm (d × w × h).
Every cabinet Eric makes is unique.
ELS
The Els is a modern interpretation of the traditional secretary desk: a desk with numerous drawers and doors. This piece of furniture was inspired by one Eric came across in the living room of his good friend Els. And as befits a true secretary desk, there is no shortage of ‘secret’ storage spaces.
In addition to the three drawers in the characteristic ‘belly’, this writing desk features several drawers and cupboard doors, providing generous storage spaces. The dimensions are 60 × 135 × 120 cm (d × w × h).
Every writing desk Eric makes is unique.
HANS
One of Eric’s most recent designs is the Hans. For this piece of furniture, he drew inspiration from the classic clocks you might recognise from your grandparents or great-grandparents. Many of these antique clocks are still widely available second-hand. Eric selects them carefully and, where necessary, has them restored by a clockmaker.
Around the clock, he builds a tower of wooden slats, giving the whole piece a contemporary and architectural character. As a nod to the traditional cuckoo clock, he also adds the characteristic bird to the design, giving the piece a playful and iconic element.
The dimensions are 32 x 53 x 240 cm (d × w × h).
Every clock Eric makes is unique.
TRIEN
Alongside the large Francy cabinet, Eric has added a new variant to his collection. This cabinet has a slimmer, more airy design and stands out as a display cabinet. It is not only a beautiful feature in any interior, but also ideal for showcasing special items.
The cabinet offers storage space in the drawers of the distinctive ‘belly’, whilst the glass display case provides space for exhibiting beautiful objects. As an iconic detail, the cabinet is finished with a little bird on top.
The dimensions are 90 x 51 x 187 cm. (d × w × h).
Every display cabinet Eric makes is unique.
See something you like?
Are you interested in the Belli collection? Feel free to get in touch with Eric!
eric@vanvrienden.com
Tel.: 0031 6 218 42 656