Gibbous: A Modular Outdoor Chair and Ottoman

Designer: Nanu Al-Hamad

Gibbous is a unique and innovative design inspired by the moon. This modular outdoor chair and ottoman is not only visually stunning but also functional and environmentally friendly. Upholstered in a heavy-duty, waterproof, glow-in-the-dark material, Gibbous charges naturally in sunlight and emits a gentle glow throughout the night. The chair is designed as a sphere, with a quarter slice that slides out to reveal the chair, while the slice itself becomes the ottoman. This ottoman can also be used as a seat or a headrest for those lying on the grass. When not in use, the chair can be compacted back into a glowing ball, adding a touch of elegance to any garden, pool, or living room.

Gibbous is made using high-quality marine glow-in-the-dark material, ensuring durability, waterproofing, and easy maintenance. The structure of the chair is crafted from wood, while the quarter slice ottoman is made entirely of foam cushion. With dimensions of 1100mm x 1100mm x 900mm, Gibbous offers a comfortable seating experience in a compact and versatile design.

The interaction with Gibbous is simple yet engaging. The chair needs to be charged using a lighting source, preferably sunlight, making it an ideal outdoor piece. To transform the chair, the quarter slice is removed, revealing the chair, and the slice itself becomes the ottoman. This ottoman can be used as a seat or a head/backrest for someone lying on the ground. Once the chair is no longer in use, it can be compacted back into a sphere, continuing to emit a beautiful glow throughout the night.

The Gibbous design project was initiated in New York in July 2011 and was manufactured in Kuwait, with completion in December 2011. It was exhibited at the Contemporary Art Platform in Kuwait in January 2012 and will be showcased at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York City in May 2012. The design process involved extensive research to find the perfect glow-in-the-dark material that met the project's requirements. The dimensions and comfort of the chair and ottoman were carefully considered to ensure a seamless integration with the sphere concept.

Gibbous has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2012, which honors well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. This accolade acknowledges Gibbous for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and contribution to a better world.

Gibbous is a testament to Nanu Al-Hamad's creativity and dedication to pushing the boundaries of design. With its unique features, modular design, and environmentally friendly glow, Gibbous offers a captivating and functional addition to any outdoor or indoor space.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Nanu Al-Hamad
Image Credits: Nanu Al-Hamad
Project Team Members: Nanu Al-Hamad
Project Name: Gibbous
Project Client: Nanu Al-Hamad


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