Alan Hung's Ging: A Blend of Craftsmanship and Modernity

Golden A' Design Award Winner Transforms Childhood Memories into a Stylish Chair

Alan Hung's inspiration for the Ging chair came from his childhood memories of crafting a slingshot from wooden sticks. The unique shape of the slingshot not only inspired the form of the chair but also served as a reminder of the joy and memories associated with creating his own craft. The resulting design is both aesthetically intriguing and structurally related to its source of inspiration.

The Ging chair is a solid wood creation, available in oak and beech, and designed to give a strong impression at first sight with its distinct form. It invites people to touch and feel the quality of the wood, a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship that went into its creation. The seamless joints give the chair a sleek and modern appearance, while the option of an armrest adds versatility to its design. The armless version is stackable, making it adaptable to different settings.

The chair's realization involved a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. Part of the chair, specifically the more complex shape on the backrest, was made with a 5-axis CNC machine, while skilled craftsmanship ensured a high-quality finish and continuity of form. The design process involved extensive research and testing to ensure structural rigidity and an optimal reclined angle for comfort.

Alan Hung's Ging chair is not just a piece of furniture; it's a work of art that reflects the designer's prodigy and wisdom. It advances the art of furniture design by focusing on the natural beauty of wood and creating a minimal but dynamic form that is both comfortable and ergonomic. The chair's round backseat and well-positioned recline angle ensure user comfort, while its stackable function adds versatility.

The Ging chair, designed in Vancouver, Canada, between March and November 2020, is a testament to Alan Hung's creativity and innovation. Despite the challenges of simplifying the construction process while maintaining the overall aesthetic of the form, the designer successfully created a chair that is perceived as a singular form. This achievement earned the Ging chair the Golden A' Design Award in 2021, a prestigious accolade granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations.