There are any number of coffeehouse chairs in existence, so how does your "Solo" series differ from them?

Nitzan Cohen: "Solo" was consciously developed in order to exploit all the advantages of crafts production that we got to know and understand in the course of the project. As a result, the series is exceptionally cost-effective and yet maintains the quality craftsmanship and love of detail typical of its predecessors. These robust items of seating are destined for unconditional use in hospitality outlets and public places, and are therefore clear and simple in shape. One of the great benefits of Mattiazzi's handcrafts production method is its flexibility. There is not one shape and one image, but any number of ways of individualizing the basic form, from the choice of color for the wooden elements and the leather sections through to the use of weatherproof thermowood.

In your opinion, does wood have special advantages as regards aesthetics, too?

Cohen: Sure. Wood has its own aesthetic charm and aura... Natural, untreated wood is one of the most appealing and tactile materials we have. While constructing a solid wood chair, as Mattiazzi does, you face a great many obstacles innate in the material itself; these obstacles dictate things to a great extent, and yet parallel to this there are numerous possibilities that arise. Developing a wooden chair is like a game of give and take with the material, it's an exciting process, a real dialogue where the bottom line is the chair itself. Such a rich dialogue is unique to wood and is an exciting aspect and possibly its greatest formal advantage...