ValenOK: A Cozy Armchair Inspired by Traditional Felt Boots

A Modern Twist on a Classic Design

In Siberia, in cold seasons, they traditionally used felted wool shoes - felt boots. They served as the prototype for this chair. Like felt boots, the upper layer of the chair is covered with a soft woolen fabric containing mohair. Childhood recollection - they sewed mittens to the kids on an elastic band and passed them through the sleeves so that they would not get lost. Small pockets on the armrests are mittens for your hands.

The ValenOK armchair, designed by Elena Zaznobina, takes inspiration from the traditional felt boots used in Siberia. This unique piece of furniture combines the warmth and comfort of felt boots with modern design elements. The chair features a streamlined silhouette, a lightweight polymer frame, and a cozy woolen fabric upholstery.

The ValenOK armchair stands out for its innovative design and thoughtful details. The lightweight polymer frame not only reduces the overall weight of the chair but also ensures ergonomic comfort during use. The natural woolen coating provides a comfortable temperature, keeping you warm on cooler days. The armrests of the chair are equipped with small pockets that resemble mittens, allowing you to comfortably warm your hands while relaxing.

The production process of the ValenOK armchair involves the use of safe plastic for the frame, polyurethane for the furniture filling, and a natural wool fabric with mohair content by Pierre Frey. The chair measures 680mm in width, 700mm in depth, and 880mm in height, making it a versatile and compact addition to any living space.

Designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, the ValenOK armchair offers a unique seating experience. Its lightweight construction allows for easy movement around the room with just one hand. The hugging shape and fluffy wool upholstery provide warmth and comfort, making it the perfect spot for relaxation. The mitten pockets on the armrests add a charming touch and ensure that your hands stay warm, even during long movie marathons.

The ValenOK armchair was developed in Moscow, Russia, from September to November 2021. The design process involved extensive research into traditional felting techniques and the use of natural materials. By incorporating wool and mohair upholstery fabrics, the designer aimed to create a piece of furniture that not only pays homage to traditional craftsmanship but also meets the needs of modern lifestyles.

This innovative armchair has been recognized for its outstanding design and creativity. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate technical and creative excellence while contributing to improvements in quality of life.

The ValenOK armchair is a testament to the fusion of traditional materials and modern design. Its ergonomic shape, cozy upholstery, and charming mitten pockets make it a standout piece that adds warmth and style to any living space.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Elena Zaznobina
Image Credits: Elena Zaznobina
Project Team Members: Elena Zaznobina
Project Name: ValenOK
Project Client: Elena Zaznobina


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