• Design: InnoRenew CoE; Mag. Eva Prelovšek Niemelä, Aarne Niemelä, Zijada Adembegović Hujdurović
• Scientific guidance and technology: Prof. Andreja Kutnar, PhD
• Acoustics: Rok Prislan, PhD

At the research institute InnoRenew CoE, we strive to showcase the opportunities that the wood sector offers in the fight against climate change. With the project of the desk for the President of the Republic of Slovenia, we aimed to highlight the advantages that Slovenia has due to its abundant forest resources and its deep knowledge and tradition of woodworking and furniture design. While designing the desk, we applied various aspects of biophilic design, which has a restorative effect on people. We also incorporated data and information into the desk that reflect wood traceability and the reuse of reclaimed wood. Due to the exceptional importance of this project for the development of the wood industry in Slovenia, we made our design and furniture concept available, resulting in a unique piece with a multi-layered message. We are extremely pleased that the President accepted the proposal and that this one-of-a-kind table now serves its purpose in the Presidential Palace.

Our starting hypothesis was that space can be designed in a way that enables both physical and mental regeneration. We followed the paradigm of Restorative Environmental and Ergonomic Design (REED). This is achieved by using wood in interior spaces, reducing noise (through appropriate acoustic elements), emphasizing natural light, and incorporating design solutions that promote physical activity. Scientifically, wood has been proven to reduce stress, has antibacterial properties, and enables thermal, acoustic, and visual comfort.

Key design elements of the furniture include:

• Interior design motifs reflect nature and tradition, such as the silhouette of Triglav (Slovenia’s highest mountain) on the cabinet, and honeycomb patterns resembling a beehive, implemented through inlay techniques.
• The semi-circular shape of the desk and cabinet represents a convergence of ideas, interaction, and creativity. The desk is placed on a round rug, forming a cohesive space for meetings, photographs, and outward presentations.
• The desk is multifunctional and allows both seated and standing work positions, promoting health and encouraging physical movement during work.
• Wall paneling on the cabinet and the sides of the desk (where possible) is made of wooden slats filled with acoustic material to provide sound absorption and greater privacy at the workplace.
• Wood traceability: The wood used in the furniture is marked with the geolocation and the silhouette of the original tree (laser-engraved into the furniture). Before the tree was harvested, it was scanned with a 3D scanner, and the image of the tree is engraved on the desk surface. The furniture is made primarily from Slovenian wood.
• Reuse of reclaimed wood: Parts of the furniture paneling are made from old wood that has been given a new function. This follows the principle of cascading use of wood, allowing it a longer life cycle. Old wood carries a unique shape and texture that connects people with history and tradition.

We hope this furniture serves as a symbol of Slovenia’s commitment and efforts in the fight against climate change and as a space that inspires action in research, business, and society. United, connected, and ambitious, we can become leaders in shaping new principles for the built environment in Europe and beyond.

 Watch Eva Prelovšek Niemelä’s statement in Slovene.