Mekanno: A Chair Inspired by Meccano

A Childhood Memory Revisited

Award-winning designer Jose Santa-Clara brings back the nostalgia of childhood with his innovative chair design, Mekanno. Inspired by the iconic Meccano model construction system, Mekanno combines the charm of the past with modern aesthetics and functionality.

What sets Mekanno apart from other chairs is its unique construction. Enlarged metal strips, scaled up from 1/2" to 40mm, provide two isostatic side frame structures. These side frames are connected by threaded steel rods covered with high-density foam upholstered in luxurious nappa leather.

To ensure transverse rigidity, Santa-Clara incorporated hawthorn wood into the design. The choice of hawthorn wood not only adds strength but also brings a warm, yellowish color to the chair, reminiscent of the traditional use of wood in fine woodworking.

Staying true to the Meccano inspiration, Mekanno features the classic Meccano colors of green and red, which were the basic Meccano colors until the mid-sixties. This playful touch adds a nostalgic element to the chair's design.

Mekanno is not just visually appealing; it also offers a comfortable seating experience. The cushion rolls are specifically designed for active sitting, promoting a healthy sitting posture. The backrest rolls are leveled to provide optimal support and comfort.

The realization of Mekanno involves a combination of materials and techniques. The frame is made of lacquered aluminum and polished hawthorn wood. The seat cushion rolls consist of high-density polyethylene foam and nappa leather over threaded steel rods. Stainless steel bolts and nuts ensure durability and stability.

With its simple yet innovative design, Mekanno can be easily assembled, making it an ideal DIY project. The chair's components, such as the metal strips, cushion rolls, and wood reinforcements, can be found in any DIY store. The packaging can even resemble the original Meccano sets, adding to the overall experience of building and owning this unique chair.

Mekanno was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2013 for its outstanding creativity and ingenuity. This prestigious award recognizes designs that incorporate best practices in art, science, design, and technology, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

Experience the nostalgia and craftsmanship of Mekanno, a chair that combines the charm of Meccano with modern design sensibilities. Embrace the past while enjoying the comfort and style of the present.