Joyn 2
In 2002, Vitra introduced a new office table typology – one that promotes dynamic, spontaneous collaboration: Joyn. Twenty years later, the updated version Joyn 2 continues to embody and support the flexible work methods of today.
Design: Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, 2023
Developed by Vitra in Switzerland
Images here
The early 2000s marked an important transition in office culture. Partially enclosed cubicles disappeared in favour of open office layouts. While areas dedicated to quiet retreat and focused tasks remained crucial, things like collective brainstorming, teamwork and co-working gained in importance. Paper and large desktop computers gradually gave way to laptops and mobile phones. People were once again encouraged to gather around the same table and this new flexible work method required an innovative genre of versatile furniture.
The Joyn table system played a pioneering role, forging a new path towards self-determination and team-based work in contemporary offices.
Designed as a simple, custom-sized table with a large, bare top, Joyn’s simplicity is part of what makes it stand out. In contrast to the standard office desk with all its bells and whistles, Joyn was conceived of as a workbench, an empty platform without a predefined layout. It centralises all activity around its homogeneous surface – as implied by the name, Joyn. Flexibility is provided with the aid of accessories such as screens and containers, which can be attached and rearranged according to different and changing work situations, and to suite individual needs.
Designers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec were inspired by the large family table at the heart of their childhood home in Brittany: ‘We were looking for a communal table for people to come together, be next to each other, without necessarily working together all the time,’ recall the brothers when describing the origin of the project. ‘We thought of a table that is able to embody all the different roles and necessities of an office.’ After all, the social aspects of work are a big part of our everyday life in the office.
Now, Vitra celebrates this anniversary by injecting the know-how it has accumulated over the years into an updated and expanded product family: Joyn 2.
The central motivation behind the development of Joyn 2 was to create the simplest, most adaptable design using durable materials that would make the table even more sustainable and long-lasting. The resulting system therefore features table tops in solid wood, screens manufactured from cork and desk pads made up of recycled leather remnants from Vitra’s furniture production. Raw aluminium is used for the bases, while plastic parts are fabricated from recycled materials where possible.
With only four legs, the table length expands to a maximum of 6.4 metres and can accommodate up to ten workstations – with easily accessible power and data options. Diverse accessories allow for the personalisation of individual areas.
The updated range of materials enables a harmonious new colour scheme and gives Joyn 2 a fresh contemporary appearance. As a result, Joyn 2 is as well-suited for workshop-style offices as it is for formal corporate environments.
Joyn 2 also comes in Meeting and Touchdown variations. The compact Joyn 2 Touchdown tables are designed for temporary use: the user can quickly and easily connect their laptop and other devices, while screens provide acoustic and visual privacy for focused tasks. Joyn 2 Meet offers conference tables for two to ten people. Joyn 2 Touchdown and Joyn 2 Meet exist in both sitting and standing-height versions and can incorporate optional castors for added mobility.
Whether utilised in an office, school, library or laboratory, bank or architectural studio, Joyn 2 is solution-based and adapts to the individual requirements of the space and its users.
In 2002, Joyn initiated a new office table typology – one that promotes dynamic, spontaneous collaboration. Twenty years later, the radical design idea continues to represent the flexible office culture of today. ‘One of the best parts of Joyn 2 is that it continues to be undefined,’ conclude Erwan and Ronan Bouroullec. ‘It is just one vast, infinite landscape where creative things can happen.’
Joyn 2 will be available from March 2023 forward. Find out more on www.vitra.com.