The Golf folding chair, conceived by the visionary Miguel Arruda, draws its primary inspiration from the simplistic yet functional form of a tree trunk bench. Arruda's innovative approach to design utilizes both rectangular and cylindrical elements, which not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the chair but also enhance its ergonomic compatibility with the human form. The chair's unique properties lie in its ability to fold into a compact parallelepiped, facilitating ease of transport and storage without compromising on style or comfort.
Arruda's dedication to maintaining an artisanal character is evident in the choice of materials and construction techniques. The chair is crafted entirely from natural wood, known for its durability and mechanical resistance. All hinges and fittings are ingeniously designed using the same wood, eliminating the need for metal parts and reinforcing the chair's artisanal quality. The use of Sucupira wood dowels, renowned for their strength, further ensures the chair's stability and longevity.
The realization of the Golf chair is a marvel of design engineering, with its components meticulously designed to dismantle and reassemble with ease. The bench and chair transform into easily transportable parallelepipeds, measuring 12x36x62cm and 12x36x76cm respectively. This innovative design allows for a seamless transition from a functional piece of furniture to a compact, storable object, exemplifying the fusion of practicality and aesthetic elegance.
Technical specifications of the Golf chair reflect its practicality, with dimensions that cater to both comfort and convenience. The bench stands at 45cm in height when opened, while the chair reaches 80cm, ensuring that both pieces accommodate a variety of settings and uses. The chair's multifunctionality is further enhanced by its portability, allowing it to adapt to diverse environments and lifestyles.
The design of the Golf chair is not only a product of creative inspiration but also of rigorous research and problem-solving. Arruda faced the challenge of selecting a wood type that would provide the necessary stability and rigidity when the chair is in use. The solution was found in the integration of Sucupira wood dowels, which connect the pieces without the need for metal, thus preserving the natural aesthetic and ensuring the chair's structural integrity.
Arruda's Golf folding chair has been recognized for its outstanding design, earning the prestigious Bronze A' Furniture Design Award in 2024. This accolade celebrates the chair's innovative design, which seamlessly integrates art, science, and technology, contributing to an improved quality of life and exemplifying the potential of thoughtful design to make a positive impact on the world.
With its ergonomic design, artisanal quality, and environmentally conscious construction, the Golf chair by Miguel Arruda is not just a piece of furniture but a statement of sustainable design and innovation. It stands as a beacon of how traditional craftsmanship can be reimagined to meet the demands of contemporary living, making it a must-have for those who appreciate the art of design.
Project Designers: Miguel Arruda
Image Credits: Image 1:Pedro Sadio, Image 2: Miguel Arruda, Image 3: Pedro Sadio, Image 4: Pedro Sadio, Image 5: Pedro Sadio
Project Team Members: Designer: Miguel Arruda
Project Name: Golf
Project Client: Arruda Arquitectos Associados, Lda