Aluminum meets cork, industry meets nature. In the designs of Robert Megel, two materials come together that could hardly be more different – and yet, they harmonize beautifully. The glossy, high-tech aluminum appears to pierce the matte, organic cork, framing and supporting it without diminishing its character.

With his Cork X collection, Robert Megel has created a series of furniture that is formally reduced and thoughtfully functional. At its core is high-density natural cork, made from granules compressed under heat and pressure in so-called autoclaves. The special part: no added adhesives are needed. Natural binding agents in the cell walls of wood and bark – known as lignins – provide the necessary stability. The cork comes from Portugal and is harvested from the bark of the cork oak. The finished material is warm, heavy, and durable, and when cut, releases a scent reminiscent of roasted nuts or a glass of port wine. Instead of relying on machines, Megel prefers craftsmanship – each piece is milled by hand using a handheld router. All objects are made in Germany.

The pieces in the collection – including tables, benches, stools, lamps, and candleholders – are highly versatile: suited for living spaces, offices, cafés, or hotels. Their design language is clear, their presence understated. Megel even manages to lend a sense of warmth to the otherwise technical material aluminum. The combination with cork is compelling not just visually but also functionally. The natural material retains warmth, providing a pleasantly tempered seating surface.

With the relaunch of his online shop, Robert Megel is not only introducing new objects, but also making a clear statement: anyone who thinks cork is only good for wine bottles or bulletin boards will be surprised to see how much depth and character this material can bring to a space.