Soma by Laurie Wiid Van Heerden — Exhibition Piece
Medium Grey Stone SOM10SG

Designer: Laurie Wiid Van Heerden
Edition: Not limited
Materials: Glass Reinforced Concrete
Dimensions: H1000 Ø733
Exhibition life: As new

Product Description:
Soma is the Greek word for “body,” and the body of a tree inspires Laurie Wiid van Heerden’s design of the Soma. The trunk-like shape carries leaves towards the sky, raising them upwards and above other plants.

The Soma planters, some substantial in size, do the same and lift beautiful plants up via a curvaceous tree trunk likeness, which could include timber as part of the tree’s body.

Soma planters are crafted from premium Glass Reinforced Concrete (GRC or GFRC), using a time-tested formula perfected over the past 30 years. Each piece is made by hand through a meticulous multi-layer process. The outer layer features a refined face coat composed of locally sourced South African aggregates and sands, natural oxides, cement, and a strengthening plasticiser — all expertly blended to create a smooth, durable finish.

Beneath this elegant exterior lies a robust back coat reinforced with alkaline glass fibres, making the material up to 20 times stronger than standard concrete. Combined with our innovative liner system, this technique allows for thinner walls without compromising on strength or stability — resulting in planters that are exceptionally sturdy yet surprisingly lightweight.

Soma planters feature a self watering liner system which facilitates low maintenance through the capillary action of the established root system. This exhibition piece is available at outlet price.