NOMADS by Olaf Hajek
German artist, illustrator, painter, graphic designer and author Olaf Hajek has transformed the USM London showroom into a series of immersive living spaces, exploring the versatility of USM Modular Furniture through his distinctive visual world.
Presented during Frieze and on display until the end of the year, NOMADS reflects Hajek's artistic interpretation of contemporary living. Inspired by his travels, multicultural influences and fascination with folklore, mythology and nature, the installation explores how people and spaces continually evolve. This fluid approach echoes the modular philosophy of USM, where furniture adapts to changing needs over time.
At the heart of the installation are four curated environments: work, relax, sleep and lounge. Each setting reimagines USM Haller within a richly decorative domestic context, demonstrating its ability to move effortlessly between functions while supporting both practicality and personal expression.
Throughout the showroom, Hajek's vibrant hand-painted wallpapers and textiles, created in collaboration with Christopher Farr Cloth, appear as screens, backdrops and wallcoverings. Their expressive patterns and bold colours create an immersive dialogue between Hajek's imaginative aesthetic and the timeless modular design of USM.
“I am interested in the tension that arises when the clarity and modernity of USM Haller meets something ornamental, painterly and expressive. Rather than seeing decoration and modernism as opposites, I want them to coexist and complement one another.”
New paintings created especially for the installation further explore the idea of nomadism and the fluid way we live today, where the boundaries between living, working and social spaces continue to shift. The result is an unexpected yet harmonious encounter between two distinct design languages, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary living and the enduring adaptability of USM.
If you want to purchase a USM Haller piece yourself design it now in our online configurator or find your local sales partner.
