Hopper: A Joyful and Ergonomic Chair by Takashi Niwa

Award-winning design that combines comfort and dynamic form

The Hopper Chair, designed by Takashi Niwa, is a unique and innovative piece of furniture that combines comfort, style, and functionality. With its reclined ergonomics, this chair invites users to sit back and relax, offering a comfortable and enjoyable seating experience.

What sets the Hopper Chair apart from other chairs is its signature double curved wood frame. This customized profile not only ensures comfort but also enhances the dynamic form of the chair. The profile has three filleted corners where the body is in contact with the chair, providing a smooth and pleasant seating experience. On the other hand, one strong edge remains to highlight the overall gesture and create a striking contrast under different lighting conditions.

The realization of the Hopper Chair involved a combination of advanced technology and skilled craftsmanship. The chair's parts were made using 5-axis CNC machines to ensure precision and accuracy. These parts were then meticulously assembled by a technician with 20 years of experience in craftsmanship, resulting in a high-quality and durable final product.

With its welcoming gesture, the Hopper Chair offers users a chance to relax and unwind. The reclined angle with its smooth curves provides comfortable armrests and backrests, allowing users to find their perfect seating position. The double curved frame not only adds to the chair's aesthetic appeal but also enhances structural stability, ensuring a safe and secure seating experience.

The Hopper Chair was designed in Hanoi, Vietnam, in May 2021 and completed in Binh Duong, Vietnam, in February 2022. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted to refine the chair's form and ensure its functionality. Multiple iterations of the leg and frame profile were studied, and a scale model was 3D printed for mock-ups before the final design was sent to the factory.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was maintaining the chair's structure and rigidity while incorporating significant curves and inclines. Extensive testing was conducted to study the relationship between the front and back legs' curves and angles. Supporting structural frames and joints were added underneath the seat to ensure stability without compromising the chair's elegant and streamlined design.

The Hopper Chair has received recognition for its outstanding design and creativity. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2022. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate ingenuity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life. The Hopper Chair exemplifies these qualities with its innovative design, ergonomic features, and contribution to enhancing the overall living experience.

The Hopper Chair, designed by Takashi Niwa, is a testament to the power of design to create functional and aesthetically pleasing furniture. Its unique form, ergonomic features, and attention to detail make it a standout piece in any space. Whether you're looking to relax after a long day or add a touch of elegance to your home or office, the Hopper Chair is the perfect choice.