Hack by Grcic

To attract young university graduates, companies need to offer a stimulating, practical and creative work environment while also being able to respond to dynamic changes in their office structures. Konstantin Grcic counters traditional desks presenting Hack – a solution that satisfies the demands of today’s high-tech companies. The computer-related term ‘hack’ was coined in the late 1950s at MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It describes a clever and resourceful solution devised by a hacker. A typical hack is quickly executed and often inelegant, but highly effective. It achieves the desired result without transforming the system architecture in which it is embedded, even though they often stand in contradiction to one another.

With its raw wooden panels, Hack presents an unfinished aesthetic at first glance, like a snapshot of an experimental project under development. The system reflects the attitude of companies that similarly define themselves in terms of constant change. Each Hack unit forms an autonomous element whose adaptability allows it to satisfy various needs: companies value Hack for its flexibility, since it can be folded up into a practical, flat ‘box’ in just a few simple steps. This makes Hack easy to dismantle and transport and enables space-saving storage. Individual users appreciate Hack’s expansive work surface, as well as its provision of a private sphere that can be personalised. 

The height adjustment element offers standing, sitting and lounge options and thus defines distinct niches for work, meetings and relaxation. Hack is not only functional and flexible, but is also fabricated in a manner that reflects the environmental priorities of young companies: thanks to its manually operated mechanism, the production and utilisation of Hack are ecologically sustainable. In addition, the tables are manufactured on site in an energy-efficient manner, with wooden parts that are locally produced and assembled by Vitra using prefabricated metal hardware.

The construction of Hack is robust and stripped down to the essentials. The solid hinges connecting the three wooden panels are precisely tooled metal parts that facilitate the clever folding function of Hack and simultaneously ensure its stability. The continuously variable height adjustment of the table top is manually operated with a recessed grip or a crank. Depending on the version, this feature makes it possible to adjust the table height within seconds from 300 to 1250 mm. In the lowest position, Hack can be outfitted with cushions for use as a sofa.

Hack
Design: Konstantin Grcic
Produced by: Vitra
Year: 2016