Innovative Move Chair by Ariel Sliwinski Wins A' Design Award

A Synthesis of Ergonomics and Sustainable Design

Ariel Sliwinski's Move chair is a testament to the designer's commitment to creating a product that is not only visually appealing but also enhances the user's tactile experience. Drawing inspiration from the philosophies of Juhani Pallasmaa, the Move chair is designed to engage the user's senses beyond sight, offering a unique haptic experience through the use of contrasting materials such as cork and aluminum.

What sets the Move chair apart is its adaptability to the user's body shape and needs. The chair features a seat that can tilt like a cradle to achieve optimal ergonomics, while the backrest is designed to rotate and tilt for maximum support. An innovative addition is the embedded pressure sensor in the seat, which promotes health by reminding the user to stand up at regular intervals through gentle vibrations.

The chair's construction utilizes cast aluminum for a lightweight yet sturdy frame, while the seat, backrest, and armrests are crafted from cork that is milled using advanced five-axis technology. This combination of materials not only contributes to the chair's unique properties but also underscores its environmental consciousness. Measuring 550mm x 515mm x 740mm, the chair is also designed to be stackable, enhancing its practicality.

Designed with user interaction in mind, the Move chair is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, allowing users to easily assemble the furniture themselves. This DIY approach aligns with the chair's sustainable design, as it can be shipped in flat boxes to reduce its carbon footprint. Moreover, the use of recycled aluminum and natural cork reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact.

The design process, which began in April 2023 in Poland, was driven by Sliwinski's extensive experience in the furniture industry and a desire to address the issue of overconsumption by creating a chair that is both perfect in form and function. The result is a chair that is not only ergonomic and functional but also aligns with the principles of a circular economy, offering the possibility of repairing or replacing components to extend its lifespan.

In conclusion, the Move chair by Ariel Sliwinski is a remarkable fusion of design innovation and ecological sensitivity. It stands as a prime example of how furniture design can evolve to meet contemporary demands for comfort, functionality, and sustainability. The Bronze A' Design Award is a fitting accolade for a chair that not only meets the ergonomic needs of its users but also contributes positively to the environment.