Hector: An Epitome of Elegance and Sophistication

Pepe Lima's Award-Winning Armchair Design, Hector, Redefines Luxury Furniture

The Hector armchair, designed by Pepe Lima, is a product of careful thought and meticulous design. Its inspiration stems from the designer's desire to cater to individuals who appreciate the richness of details and products that evoke new experiences with each interaction. The armchair is designed for those who value novelty, the use of noble materials, and above all, comfort.

What sets Hector apart from other furniture designs is its daring combination of materials. The armchair incorporates cast aluminum, plywood, leather, and solid wood, creating an elegant and sophisticated product. The tapestry appears to float around the arms, with the metal supports cleverly hidden or disguised with leather. At the back, two delicate ornaments in cast aluminum give the impression of supporting the backrest, which is actually supported by an internal structure in the tapestry. This array of textures allows for customization, making Hector suitable for clients with tastes ranging from sober to bold.

The armchair's realization technology is equally impressive. It has an internal structure of solid wood covered by foam and fabric, ensuring good fastening on the metallic rods discreetly placed under the seat. Two steel pieces covered in leather, with brass buttons disguised as upholstery details, provide structure. The back features fluid and delicate elements in cast aluminum that serve as parameters for the aesthetic and positioning of the backrest.

Hector's design process involved extensive research and testing. To keep the solid wood arms as delicate and thin as possible, strength tests were conducted on several samples of varying thickness until a functional conclusion was reached. The same process was applied to the internal wooden structure and the lower steel bars to ensure a firm and solid construction with no swaying.

Despite the challenges faced during the design process, such as creating an internal structure capable of connecting the upholstery with the arms in a discreet and solid way, the Hector armchair was successfully completed in December 2021 in Sao Bento do Sul, Brazil. The armchair is exclusively designed for indoor environments and is not suitable for outdoor conditions. Extreme humidity or direct contact with water can damage and warp the plywood, and direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent fading of the fabric and other materials.

The Hector armchair's unique design and innovative approach to furniture design have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, it was awarded Silver in the A' Furniture Design Award, a prestigious accolade that recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. This award is a testament to Pepe Lima's commitment to creating designs that not only meet the needs of their users but also push the boundaries of what is possible in furniture design.