Three Legged Chair: A Simple and Elegant Design

A Handcrafted Masterpiece by Ricardo Graham Ferreira

The Three Legged Chair, designed by Ricardo Graham Ferreira, is a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. With just three legs, six meters of rope, and seven pieces of wood, this chair showcases the beauty of simplicity. Its natural lines and superb craftsmanship make it a unique addition to any space.

What sets this chair apart is its ingenious design. The shape of the backrest is created by a natural ramie cord, which is tightened using a toggle stick located under the seat. This elegant and simple solution not only adds to the chair's aesthetic appeal but also allows for the natural movement of the wood.

The construction of the Three Legged Chair is a testament to traditional woodworking techniques. Made mostly by hand using tropical hardwood and rope, this chair is a labor of love. The use of round tenon joints and dowel joints ensures its durability and stability.

Measuring at a compact size of 450mm in width, 420mm in depth, and 775mm in height, the Three Legged Chair is lightweight, weighing approximately 5 to 8 kg depending on the wood species. It comes packaged in a cardboard or OSB box, making it easy to transport and assemble.

Seating is a common action that people engage in daily, and the Three Legged Chair aims to provide a beautiful, simple, and comfortable seating solution. Its design allows for easy movement and stability on any surface. The backrest rope can also be customized, allowing users to interact with the chair and make it their own.

The Three Legged Chair project started in January 2014 in Rio de Janeiro and was first produced in June 2014. Since then, it has been exhibited at various design events, including Sao Paulo Design Week, Milan's Salone del Mobile, and Paris Design Week.

Ricardo Graham Ferreira's research and dedication to creating the perfect chair are evident in the evolution of the design. Five prototypes were created, each fine-tuning the chair's comfort and stability. The result is a chair that not only looks stunning but also provides a comfortable seating experience.

The Three Legged Chair overcomes the challenges of working with wood's natural ability to swell and contract. Its three legs not only ensure stability on uneven floors but also allow the wooden seat to expand and contract freely without affecting the balance of the chair. The backrest, made of cord, provides a unique aesthetic while allowing for the natural movement of the wood.

The Three Legged Chair is a true testament to the essence of woodworking. Its handcrafted nature and attention to detail make it a standout piece of furniture. With its simple yet elegant design, this chair is not only a functional seating solution but also a work of art.

Images: Photographer Diego Castro / Creator Diego Castro (photographer and designer), Cadeira 3 Pés, 2014.

Video Credits: Frank Rocha, Dziga Filmes, Rock n' Roll, 2014.

Awards and Accolades: The Three Legged Chair was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2016. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements.