Less: Pushing the Boundaries of Product Design

An Armchair Designed by Attila Jónás

Inspired by Dieter Rams and Mark Rothko, Less is a minimalistic armchair that challenges traditional notions of design and beauty.

This groundbreaking armchair, aptly named Less, is the brainchild of renowned designer Attila Jónás. Drawing inspiration from the current state of product design, as well as the works of Dieter Rams and the paintings of Mark Rothko, Jónás set out to create a piece that would push the boundaries of what is considered well-designed.

Less is a testament to the power of simplicity. It poses thought-provoking questions about the nature of design and art. What is beautiful? What is ugly? How far can we push the limits? Jónás challenges these notions by asking, "If something is simple, is it also beautiful?" The answer, embodied in the Less armchair, is a resounding yes.

The armchair's design is a minimalist cube, crafted from hard polyurethane foam on the exterior and memory foam on the interior. The combination of these materials creates a comfortable and supportive seating experience. The armchair is then covered in an elastic textile, adding a touch of elegance to its clean lines.

Measuring 90cm x 90cm x 90cm, Less is the epitome of simplicity and functionality. Its unassuming presence allows it to seamlessly blend into any space, while its ergonomic design ensures maximum comfort.

When one sits in the Less armchair, the minimal cube design takes on a new dimension. The creases and contours created by the user's body transform the chair, making it more than just a simple cube. This interaction between the user and the design is a testament to the philosophy behind Less - that less can indeed be more.

The Less armchair project began in Budapest, Hungary, in December 2012, and was completed in February 2013. Since its inception, it has garnered widespread acclaim and recognition. In 2013, Less was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that exhibit outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology.

Less is not just an armchair; it is a statement. It challenges conventional notions of design and beauty, proving that simplicity can be powerful and thought-provoking. Attila Jónás has created a masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of product design, leaving us with a profound question - what does the simplest armchair look like? The answer lies in Less.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Attila Jónás
Image Credits: Attila Jónás
Project Team Members: Attila Jónás
Project Name: Less
Project Client: Attila Jónás


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