Martin Andersen, StudioM3

How did the idea of using USM Haller benches at the Talks arena come about?
– When I started StudioM3, we bought all the old USM Haller filing cabinets from the former Kreditkassen headquarters at Majorstua in Oslo. After decades of use, they showed obvious signs of wear, but they were still fully functional – and compatible with new parts. That sparked the idea of giving them a new life. Creativity and redesign are part of the USM Haller system’s DNA, so we wanted to challenge designers to rethink the furniture. From archive shelf to seating bench.

How does the project connect to this year’s theme, Repurpose?
– Repurpose is about seeing the potential in what already exists and giving it a new function. That is exactly what we’re doing here – taking an old piece of furniture and letting designers create something entirely new from it.

Which designers are involved?
– We wanted benches with personality, and preferably some bold experiments with materials and expression. That’s why we invited a diverse group of designers – both established names and new talents. Some we know well, others we have followed because they are doing exciting work. And yes, two of our own StudioM3 designers are also part of the project.
The contributors are: Bård Arnesen, Bjarte Sandal, Hunting & Narud, Josefin Johansson, Kjetil Smedal, Lloyd Winter, Marianne Skarbøvik, Mic Poy, Martin A. Andersen and Stian Korntved Ruud.

What do you hope the audience will take away from this project?
– Above all, inspiration. We hope people will see new possibilities in reuse and take home a few ideas of their own. Not everything has to turn into a small work of art – sometimes it’s enough with a surprising, playful or clever solution that shows how furniture can gain a new life. It can be as simple as repainting, replacing a tabletop, or giving it a new function. And with that, you often get a story worth telling.