More than just a snack
Czech designer Lucie Koldova was invited to this year’s imm cologne to present her vision for future living in the form of her own “The House” installation – across a total of 180 square meters. Previously known primarily for her lighting fixtures, Koldova also came up with a new addition in the field of interior design: In collaboration with furniture maker Ton she designed a lounge chair called “Chips” that melds craftsmanship and modern design. The inspiration is more than obvious: The unusual shape of the oversized backrest with its perforated fabric framed by bentwood recalls the structure of the potato snack by the same name.
As for the technology, it cites the roots of the company Ton, which Michael Thonet founded in 1861 as a bentwood furniture maker. First the beech wood is steamed, and then bent as desired with the help of metal molds and sheer physical strength. The solid seat area forms a contrast to the perforated backrest. Koldova had to pay attention to the strength of the chair base ensuring the backrest can withstand the forces applied to it. For greater comfort the backrest can be paired with an upholstered cushion. Thanks to the soft lines and the light look of the mesh, a fabric more commonly found in office settings or outdoors the lounge chair appears harmonious and dynamic despite the many stylistic breaks.
“A solitary piece with a distinctive character, which stands out clearly from the classic chair,” according to Lucie Koldova. The success of the unusual design was evident at the very start of the trade fair: As part of the “Stylepark Selected” exhibition in the Museum of Applied Art Cologne (MAK) “Chips” received the “Stylepark Award” as one of the 20 most interesting novelties at imm cologne 2018. For the presentation at the fair, with an ironic twist Ton drew attention to the new creation by giving visitors small bags of potato chips, which were designed especially for the occasion. (am)
