“There is something much better than sitting on an empty chair and that is to watch it and to let it inspire you to think deeply!” – Mehmet Murat ildan.

You know that popular saying “Out with the old, in with the new”? Well, that’s where interior design is at now. Office design is no longer as you used to know it. For instance, designers that know their stuff like me *side eye* are dumping the good ol’ black executive chairs like a bad habit and replacing them with modern and contemporary designs and i’m all for it.

The Scandinavians -they inspire me by the way-, have been getting it right for so long and I wonder why we are just catching the fire in this part of the world. Anyway, it’s better late than never.

A special tribute to Hans Wegner for the awesome work he did while he was alive that has transcended generations and still maintains its relevance in modern design. Wegner in his time designed the infamous shell chair, oculus chair, and a lot of others, a few of which will be highlighted in this post. Let’s get straight to it, shall we?

Wishbone Chair

With a design that is uniquely its own, the Wishbone Chair holds a special position in the world of modern design. This iconic design was the last part of a Wegner series inspired by portraits of Danish merchants sitting in Chinese Ming Dynasty chairs. Wegner took a giant leap in furniture design with the series, combining the top rails and arms into a single piece. The characteristic Y-shaped back provides comfortable support while giving stability to the steam-bent top.

Many view the Wishbone Chair as an ideal chair as it fulfills the functional demands for comfort and stability while having a distinct look.

The Shell Chair

The Shell Chair has such a powerful presence that it wasn’t an instant success when Hans J. Wegner designed it in 1963. While some critics loved the avant-garde design of Wegner’s lounge chair, the general public was reluctant to accept the chair’s bold and different design. But when the Shell Chair was reintroduced in 1998 it immediately won broad public appeal as well as several design awards.

Barcelona Chair

One of the most recognized objects of the last century, and an icon of the modern movement, the Barcelona Chair exudes a simple elegance that epitomizes Mies van der Rohe’s most famous maxim–“less is more.” Each Barcelona piece is a tribute to the marriage of modern design and exceptional craftsmanship.

Casual meetings can be the most productive – yet the furniture tends to be uninspiring. Montara650 is a refined alternative. Infused with comfort and craft, the collection’s sculpted seating pairs with simple pedestal tables, filling informal spaces with café-style character tailored the way you want it. Simple. Social. Refined.

Montara650

Stackable doesn’t have to be predictable. Montara650 is a well thought-out solution to a growing workplace need. The durable oak-veneered plywood shell is comfortable on its own and more so with a seat cushion or upholstery. Warm and appealing, Montara650 is a touch of luxury at an affordable price point.

The Rocking Nest Chair

Designed by Anker Bak and produced by Carl Hansen and Son, this design, which combines wood, leather, canvas, and steel in an organic and inviting shape, was actually created with the designer’s sister in mind as she sought a meditative and comfortable place to relax with her newborn baby. The Rocking Nest Chair is thus a good example of the designer’s practical yet emotional approach to the design process.

Even in the office, we need a feeling of homeliness. Rocking Nest Chair is designed for small spaces. It is foldable, easy to carry around or hide away when you need room for events or playing.

The Oculus

A sought-after and sculptural armchair designed by Hans J. Wegner in 1960 but not put into production until 2010. The chair is known as “The Oculus”.  “Oculus” is Latin for the eye, and refers to the chair’s curved back which forms an “eye” in the upholstery. The chair’s round, roomy upholstered back and large armrests provide a comely contrast to the lightweight stainless steel legs. In and of itself the chair can form the center of attention in any space but it also functions well in groups.

This list of self-expressive chairs is by no means exhaustive. There are a zillion inspiring chair designs from even less famous furniture producers out there. What’s more, we can get these designs into your space when you want them. That’s right! The revolution in space design will not be televised, my brother. Get in touch at bajagunna@gmail.com or just leave a comment below!

Best Designs,

Banke.

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Excerpts from: Carlhansen.com, Knoll.com, Coalesse.com