London-based design studio Based Upon is renowned for its out-of-the-box work and their latest creation is marvel on its own. Upgrading the classic piano design to a level that’s worthy of a grand art exhibition, is the Twist/D. A radical piano that breaks all norms for a creative twist.
Previously the studio has collaborated with names like Rolls-Royce and Tiffany & Co. to create collectible pieces which adorn the spaces of the rich and the famous. Building on the success of The Baby edition of five baby grands, this exclusive piece brings the grand expanse of the universe to your living room musical symphony.
Designer: Based Upon
According to Ian Abell, the essence of every piece crafted at the studio focuses on the right balance between functionality and artwork. Ian emphasis that the piano as a subject for them has “always been to create a credible piece of art while preserving the integrity of the instrument.” Twist/D tends to heighten the experience of the player as well as the listener. To everyone’s surprise, the autonomous piano is an amalgam of sculpture and technical features that delivers the touch, feel and sound of an exquisite concert grand.
The musical instrument has a spiralling shape that embodies dynamism of a dancer’s motion. The minimal silhouette of the piano is inspired by the proportions of the Golden Spiral. For the auditory brilliance, there are 12 computer modelled Steinways and Bechsteins from different eras for a vivid tonal qualities. Just like the form of this piano, the sync between strings, cabinet resonance and pedal mechanism of the symphonies is emulated perfectly for a rich sound. So has the integration of Isle of Skye site-specific audio samples that employs impulse response reverb techniques to create signatures of the island subterranean landscape.
Based Upon has managed to craft a musical instrument from advanced material and techniques to create a deep connection with the natural world. Twist/D has a lightweight frame made out of a composite material that makes possible the unconventional shape without compromising the structural integrity. Those keys are made from sustainable ebony and ivory alternatives for an environmentally friendly design. The price of $194,600 is meant to adorn the living rooms of music composers who value the good things in life.
