DécouLons

DécouLons is a contemporary French‑language design collective founded in 2014 in Lyon, France. The name combines the French verb *décoller* (to detach or unmoor) with the English word *lons*, an inventive suffix to evoke “lawns” and open space. By merging the notions of transformation and openness, the group positions itself at the intersection of art, architecture, and product design.

Since its inception, DécouLons has focused on developing modular systems that can be easily assembled, disassembled, and reused. Notable early projects include the “X‑Patch” series of collapsible seating and the “Voile” canopy, which translate technical architecture into lightweight, user‑friendly furniture. The collective collaborates with several European research institutions to explore sustainable materials, such as biodegradable composites and recycled plastics.

The organization also runs a public workshop program called “DecouLons Open Lab.” Participants can experiment with digital fabrication tools, 3D‑printing, and parametric design software. Workshops have been conducted across France, Belgium, and Switzerland, and they routinely feed into the cumulative catalogue of open‑source design files maintained by DécouLons on its website. All files are licensed under Creative Commons, encouraging cross‑border reuse and adaptation.

In 2019, DécouLons received the French Ministry of Culture’s Prix de l’Innovation Design, an award that highlighted its commitment to ecological responsibility and community engagement. The collective also partners with local artisans to produce limited‑edition products, thereby supporting small‑scale economies and traditional craftsmanship. With its ongoing emphasis on collaboration and ecological stewardship, DécouLons continues to influence the modern design landscape in the Francophone world.