Concrete Echelon Planter by Opiary

Robert Remer’s unique, biophilic approach to design incorporates organic forms into modern garden furniture, ornaments and sculptures, inspired by the evolving relationship between nature and civilization. 

In 1992, Remer graduated from Yale University with a bachelor’s degree in architecture. While at Yale, he studied sculpture under American sculptor and installation artist Alice Aycock, known for her important contributions to the land art movement of the 1970s.

In 1994, Remer began his studio practice before founding the Opiary design and production studio in 2010 in Brooklyn, New York. At Opiary, Remer focuses on integrating natural elements into every design, from his concrete Echelon planter and modern, minimalist Ukiyo Saucer fountain to his distinctive Caldera coffee table. 

Remer’s collection of hand-sculpted, nature-inspired furniture also includes the concrete Hoodoo standing lamp and the classic, yet contemporary, Queen Anne dining table. The innovative Eero center table features a tempered glass table top and open area to grow ornamental plants, flowers, or cooking herbs, or to house artificial plants. 

Remer’s designs at Opiary have garnered critical acclaim at several exhibitions and art fairs. In 2019, Opiary won Best in Show at the New York Metro Architectural Digest Show Awards and Best Exhibition Booth at Boutique Design New York. The organic Drillium club chair was named Best Piece of Furniture by the International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in 2021.

Opiary has been featured in numerous prestigious publications, including Forbes, Interior Design, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful and Vogue.

On 1stDibs, discover a range of Robert Remer building and garden elements, decorative objects, tables and more.