Turn: The Versatile Armchair with a Twist

A Unique Design Inspired by the Lancia Lambda

Turn, designed by Giuseppe Fais, is an armchair that combines functionality, versatility, and innovative design. Inspired by the car chassis of the Lancia Lambda from 1922, this armchair offers a unique seating experience that goes beyond traditional armchairs.

Turn stands out from other armchairs with its supporting frame that doubles as containers. When turned upside down, it allows users to sit in different ways, providing both a comfortable seating option and a rocking chair experience. This versatility and its many functions interact with its users, creating a microcosm of comfort and relaxation.

The design of Turn prioritizes both form and function. The frame is made of die-cast aluminum, ensuring high performance in terms of lightness and finishing. The body shells are printed polypropylene, connected with a snap-fit joint system. The upholstery is made of polyurethane without freon or other swelling agents, making it environmentally friendly.

One of the key features of Turn is its design for disassembly. The armchair is fully removable, with cotton pillows that can be easily attached and detached using a Velcro fastening system. This design approach not only allows for easy maintenance but also contributes to sustainability.

With dimensions of 650mm width, 1300mm depth, and 1080mm height when the backrest is opened, and 800mm height when closed, Turn offers a comfortable seating experience. The seating area measures 620mm width, 420mm depth when the backrest is closed, and 480mm depth when opened, with a height of 320mm when closed and 600mm when opened.

Turn is designed to be easily packaged and transported. It comes disassembled in three packaging: the frame (1360mm x 113mm x 900mm), the body shells (930mm x 480mm x 720mm), and the padded cushions (480mm x 370mm x 720mm).

Giuseppe Fais started working on the Turn project in October 2012 and completed it in February 2013 in Sardinia. The design process involved extensive research and analysis to create an armchair that seamlessly integrates mechanical parts with the bodywork, resulting in a symbiotic design.

The design of Turn presented several challenges, including finding the right balance between full and empty spaces to minimize the impact on production resources while maintaining the feel-good factor. Through meticulous analysis and creative problem-solving, Giuseppe Fais successfully overcame these challenges to create a truly unique and functional armchair.

Turn has been recognized for its exceptional design and functionality. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2013. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements.

Turn is not just an armchair; it is a testament to the possibilities of design. With its unique features and versatile design, Turn offers a new way to experience comfort and relaxation in style.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: GIUSEPPE FAIS
Image Credits: GIUSEPPE FAIS
Project Team Members: Giuseppe Fais
Project Name: Turn
Project Client: GIUSEPPE FAIS


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