Forma: Sculptural Leather Chair Inspired by Saddlery

Jaewoo Choi’s Forma melds tradition and innovation in contemporary seating

Rooted in the heritage of equestrian gear, Forma draws inspiration from the transformation of raw materials through time-honored techniques. Jaewoo Choi revisits wet molding, a process integral to traditional saddlery, adapting it for contemporary furniture design. This approach allows the chair to embody both structure and fluidity, paying homage to craftsmanship while embracing refined, modern aesthetics.

What sets Forma apart is its reinterpretation of the classic saddle silhouette. By employing wet molding, Choi shapes vegetable-tanned leather into intricate, structured forms that balance softness and rigidity. This technique not only enhances the chair’s durability but also achieves a sculptural rhythm, redefining the possibilities of leather manipulation in modern fabrication. The seamless transitions between flexible and firm elements highlight the chair’s unique materiality and visual appeal.

The realization of Forma relies on a deep understanding of leather’s properties and the potential of wet molding. This centuries-old method, known for its role in creating durable equestrian gear, is reimagined to fuse soft and rigid components with elegant fluidity. The result is a chair that preserves traditional craftsmanship while exploring new avenues in material adaptation and fabrication technologies.

Technically, Forma combines vegetable-tanned leather, MDF, and steel, measuring 560 mm in width, 605 mm in depth, and 670 mm in height. The chair’s design ensures both comfort and support, making it suitable for a variety of interior spaces. Its sculptural presence allows it to function as both a seat and a statement piece, reflecting the careful balance of form and function.

Extensive research and hands-on experimentation underpin Forma’s development. By analyzing leather’s flexibility and structural limits, Choi pushes the boundaries of traditional craft, bridging material-driven research with innovative design. This exploration not only redefines leather’s role in furniture but also challenges conventional applications, expanding the potential of adaptive design solutions.

Forma’s excellence has been recognized with the Iron A' Furniture Design Award in 2025, honoring its integration of industry best practices, technical competence, and contribution to contemporary design. The chair stands as a testament to the enduring value of craftsmanship, material exploration, and creative innovation in modern lifestyle environments.

Image Credits: Jaewoo(Jae) Choi, Forma, 2023.