Memphis: A Minimalist Folding Chair with a Modern Twist

A Contemporary Take on the Classic Folding Chair

The Memphis chair, designed by Nora Voon, is a modern interpretation of the traditional folding chair. With its sleek and elegant design, this handcrafted chair is made from rustproof stainless steel with a powder-coated finish. Inspired by childhood candies and the shape of a paperclip, Voon aimed to create a folding chair that is both minimalistic and substantial, paying attention to intricate details such as the grooves along the chair frame. The chair is stackable, making it easy to store, and comes in five vibrant colors. It can also be conveniently shipped in a flat pack.

The Memphis chair stands out from other folding chairs due to its unique properties and strengths. Its clean and minimal frame design, with exposed brass screws and grooves, draws the viewer's attention and invites them to appreciate the chair's details. The chair's profile is intentionally simple, resembling a line drawing, which adds to its visual appeal. Its stackable and collapsible design allows for efficient storage and shipping, making it ideal for both residential and commercial spaces.

The Memphis chair is crafted using stainless steel with a rustproof powder coating. Its frame features a central groove and is secured with brass screws and fittings. The absence of a backrest was a deliberate choice by the designer to maintain the chair's minimalistic form and create a sense of transparency. Despite the missing backrest, the chair remains comfortable and functional.

Measuring W410 x D400 x H815 mm, the Memphis chair is designed to fit seamlessly into various settings, from outdoor patios to trendy cafes and bistros. Its simplicity and ease of use make it a timeless piece that can be operated with a single unfolding movement. The chair's versatility and space-saving capabilities, such as the option to hang it on a wall, make it particularly suitable for small apartments or homes.

The Memphis chair project began in January 2022, with two weeks dedicated to research on materials, forms, and fittings. The design concept was developed in Toronto, Canada, while the manufacturing process takes place in Indonesia. The designer's research focused on finding a solution for the lack of aesthetically pleasing folding chairs suitable for commercial use. The choice of stainless steel and bright, cheerful colors was driven by the desire to create a durable and visually appealing chair that can brighten any interior or exterior space.

Overcoming creative and technical challenges, such as ensuring the chair's strength and resistance to corrosion, led to the selection of stainless steel as the primary material. The chair's design received positive feedback when showcased on social media, generating significant interest and inquiries from potential customers. Additionally, a manufacturer in New York expressed interest in producing the Memphis chair.

The Memphis chair has received the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2022. This award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The chair's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its ability to provide fulfillment and positive feelings contribute to a better world.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Nora Voon
Image Credits: Images #1 to #5: render by Katie Zhang video credit: Katie Zhang
Project Team Members: Nora Voon
Project Name: Memphis
Project Client: Nora Voon


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