Quilt Chair: Pushing the Boundaries of Wooden Surfaces

An Investigation into the Union of Soft Textural Form Language and Hard Materials

The Quilt chair stands out from other designs due to its innovative approach to combining soft and hard materials. Inspired by a traditional quilted pattern, Wells has created a chair that showcases the possibilities of pairing technology with traditional materials. The chair's surfaces are meticulously crafted using CNC-milled American Cherry hardwood, resulting in a stunning and textured appearance.

The design process involved the creation of cut files for the CNC milling process, which were generated using digital modeling software. The chair's frame features slotted tabs that allow for expansion of the seat, while welds at the three-way junctions enable the vertical frame members to flex outward for expansion of the chair back. Threaded inserts in the wooden components facilitate easy connection to the frame, and detachable stretchers allow for quick disassembly and flat packing for shipping or storage. The chair is completed with turned brass feet that protect flooring surfaces.

With dimensions of 585mm in depth, 460mm in width, and 785mm in height, the Quilt chair offers both comfort and functionality. Its unique contoured surfaces provide a massaging effect, making it not only visually engaging but also incredibly comfortable to sit in. The chair's structure is designed to give just enough flexibility for settling in, ensuring a comfortable and supportive seating experience.

The Quilt chair was created in Providence, RI, USA, during the fall of 2010. The design process took approximately six weeks from start to finish, during which Wells conducted extensive research on ergonomics, structure, and form. By building a fully adjustable mock-up, he was able to explore different geometric configurations and find the most comfortable angles while ensuring strength and stability.

Despite facing challenges in terms of sustainability and cost-effectiveness, Wells remained committed to creating an opulent object that showcased the possibilities of technology and traditional materials. The technical aspects of the design also presented challenges, such as installing threaded inserts at compound angles into curved surfaces. However, through the full-scale prototype construction process, the concept of the Quilt chair has been proven and is now ready for manufacturing.

The Quilt chair has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2012, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence. The Quilt chair's incorporation of best practices in art, science, design, and technology contributes to quality of life improvements, making it a truly remarkable piece.

The Quilt chair is a testament to the possibilities of combining soft and hard materials in design. With its unique textured surfaces and innovative construction techniques, it pushes the boundaries of how we perceive wooden surfaces. Comfortable, visually engaging, and meticulously crafted, the Quilt chair is a true work of art in the realm of furniture design.