Iko: A Hanging Chair Redefining Office Spaces

Designed by Ivo Andric, Iko is a unique hanging chair that promotes workplace wellbeing and wellness.

The inspiration for the Iko chair stemmed from a simple need: a unique chair for Andric's own office. The search for a suitable hanging chair that could serve as a retreat for relaxation or phone calls proved fruitless. The market offered designs that were either aesthetically unappealing, poorly crafted, or made from substandard materials. This gap in the market led to the creation of the Iko chair.

Described by Andric as a "levitating sphere" and a "refuge for the senses," the Iko chair is more than just a hanging chair. It is a functional design object that can seamlessly integrate into various environments. The chair's form is based on the icosahedron, one of the five Platonic solids, which lends the chair its name: Iko.

The Iko chair is crafted with precision and care. The main structure comprises machine-made wooden elements that are hand-finished and CNC-milled metal cylinders. The triangular acoustic panels are pressed in a special process and covered with pure wool acoustic textile. The upholstery parts are also covered with wool fabric, with the seat part filled with grain husk for a healthy and comfortable stay. The chair hangs from hemp ropes, further emphasizing the sustainable choice of materials.

Functionally, the Iko chair serves as a retreat for various activities, from reading and focusing to making phone calls and working. It can also be used for a power nap or simply chilling, without disturbing others in the same room. Moreover, it serves as a safe and comfortable playground for children, especially when the back cushion is removed.

The Iko chair project was conceived in May 2020 and the final prototype was ready for small series production by February 2022. The project was carried out in Zurich, Switzerland. The chair has already been recognized for its innovative design, winning the Silver A' Office Furniture Design Award in 2022.

In conclusion, the Iko hanging chair, with its unique design and functional features, offers a fresh perspective on office furniture. It is a testament to the power of design in enhancing workplace wellbeing and wellness. The Iko chair is not just a piece of furniture, but a design object that redefines the concept of personal space in open office environments.