Suanni: The Multifunctional Chair Inspired by Curved Wire

Unleashing the Potential of a Rusty Discovery

The Suanni chair stands out from the crowd with its carefully rotated, curved shapes that unveil numerous options for users and their accessories. This chair was not only designed in the mathematical dimension but, above all, in the existential dimension. It aims to engage us emotionally, subconsciously, and intellectually. Quintela's studio believes that design based on sincerity is what creates art, responding devotedly to specific questions without resorting to previous solutions.

To strike a balance between strength and lightness, the Suanni chair is constructed using laminated plywood. The natural wood finish showcases the technical achievements of modern woodworking techniques.

The dimensions of the Suanni chair vary depending on the different positions it can assume. Quintela studied each position separately while considering the chair as a whole, resulting in a harmonious and versatile design.

By simply rotating the Suanni chair, users can discover different positions and find various ways to sit on it. This transformative quality makes it not just a chair but an inhabited sculpture, offering several chairs in one object.

The Suanni chair's journey began in the sketchbook of Pedro Quintela during his solitary travels around the world before he became an architect. After 15 years of practice, he finally had the opportunity to develop his sketches. The inspiration for this particular design came from a small, curved wire found while sweeping the floor on a hot day in Morocco.

Quintela's research process focused on channeling inspiration rather than traditional research. He meditated on the unique shape of the curved wire that caught his attention and explored how it could be transformed into a chair design. The wire was photographed, drawn on paper, and meticulously refined until the final lines were found. A computer-scale model was then created and experimented with human dimensions to ensure optimal comfort.

The Suanni chair presented creative and technical challenges. Quintela had to design a multifunctional chair using an old, curved, rusty wire as the starting point. The development process required finding the balance between the chair's overall composition and its various positions. Quintela delved into ergonomics and design history to create a provocative project that challenges conventional design approaches and invites creative consciousness.

Inspired by the curvilinear body shape of the mythical creature Suanni, the fifth son of the Dragon, the Suanni chair embodies transformation and synthesis. Like a lion, the Suanni chair invites contemplation and relaxation. Its thoroughly curved shapes offer different resting surfaces, meeting the needs and comfort of today's lifestyle.

The Suanni chair, designed by Pedro Quintela, has been recognized with the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2016. This award celebrates well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Suanni chair's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contributes to a better world, providing fulfillment and positive feelings.