zU-studio invites people to re-lie with parenthesis inclining platform

exploring alternatives to daily body positions and ways to connect to one’s inner self, dutch practice zU-studio has developed an intriguing design titled ‘parenthesis’. it is an inclined platform adaptable to different situations, which will help users breathe better and enter a stress-free state of being.

re-lying involves anti-gravity positions that improve several bodily functions
all images © hugo iglesias

the inclining structure is developed by javier zubiria from zU-studio, alongside industrial engineer josu iturrioz and physician ane garmendia. indeed through this project, it was important to highlight the impact of body positions on people’s mental and physical well-being. to elaborate, postural medicine studies the effects of gravity on bodily functions and the ability to influence various diseases by changing positions. based on that, the product introduces the concept of ‘re-lying’ — which is a combination of reclining and lying down. 

the design is influenced by the field of postural medicine, which studies the impact of daily positions on our bodies

re-lying implicates antigravity positions which benefit various systems — including circulatory, respiratory, digestive and the like. for example, this position reduces heart rate and pressure on the back — improving venous circulation and the lumbar discs system. as a final result, this sculptural product has been designed to fit in different environments including airports, office spaces, schools, stores, cinemas and many other public dwellings. 

parent(h)esis
video courtesy of  javier zubiria

the structure is adaptable to different situations and inclinations

front view 

parenthesis can be also used as a regular seating platform 

side view  

the inclining platform is a stress reducer and betters one’s breathing 

double-function demonstrated  

from offices, airports, stores, hotels and the like, ‘parenthesis’ is adaptable to different public dwellings 

scheme: study of daily positions 

concept idea: combining both positions 

project info:

concept and product development: javier zubiria (zU-studio), ane garmendia and josu iturrioz
styling: cabo rojo / gstar san sebastian

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom