# Aluminum Chess Sets CS-01 Uses Exposed Hardware and Powder-Coated Aluminum By Amy Duong | Published 2026-06-25 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cs01 References: [instagram](https://www.instagram.com/see_borg/)  The CS-01 is a [chess set](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chess-nyc) designed by Christian Borger, a New York-based architect and industrial designer known for furniture and objects that emphasize material clarity and structural expression. Measuring 14 x 14 x 5 inches, the [compact set](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pocket-chessboard) is constructed from powder-coated aluminum, stainless steel hardware, rubber bumpers, and enamel paint. Rather than concealing its assembly, the design leaves hardware visible, making construction details a defining visual feature. The chess pieces stand five inches tall and are organized through proportion and hierarchy while maintaining the familiarity needed for gameplay. Powder-coated aluminum surfaces contrast with exposed stainless steel components, creating a clean industrial aesthetic rooted in durability and precision. The compact footprint allows the set to function as both a playable game and a [sculptural object](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/another-kingdom) suited to desks, shelves, and living spaces. Image Credit: Christian Borger ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.5/10 - Popularity: 59% | Activity: 59% | Freshness: 78% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Industrial Game Design:** Visible hardware, powder-coated metals, and structural detailing are redefining tabletop games as durable design objects with collectible appeal. - **Functional Sculptural Decor:** Compact objects that serve both play and display purposes create new value in home goods by blending utility with gallery-like aesthetics. - **Material-forward Luxury:** Premium consumer products centered on aluminum, stainless steel, and enamel finishes signal opportunities for tactile differentiation in traditionally low-tech categories. ### Where This Applies - **Board Games:** The category is expanding beyond casual entertainment as high-end materials and architectural forms position classic games as lasting lifestyle products. - **Home Decor:** Design-led gaming objects fit into interiors as conversation pieces, opening space for decor brands to merge leisure, craftsmanship, and compact display. - **Industrial Design:** Exposed construction and precision manufacturing elevate everyday objects, giving designers new pathways to turn assembly details into signature visual language. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Dual-Compartment Air Fryers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ninja-crispi-dualzone-air-fryer.md) - [Trading Cards-Insired Footwear Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bobby-witt-jr.md) - [Folding Truck Bed Covers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/folding-truck-bed-cover.md) - [Fresh Produce Packaging Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fresh-produce-packaging-solutions.md) - [Women-Focused Flag Football Camps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flag-football-camp.md) - [Bespoke Art Car Tours](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/half-11.md) - [AI-Powered Photo Reframing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/AI-powered-photo-reframing.md) - [Luxe Loft-Free Tiny Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/craft-house-justine.md) - [Nostalgically Shot Fashion Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/prefall-2026-advertising-campaign.md)