Chiuso: A Beautifully Designed Parasol with Hidden Frame

Parasol Design by Lieven Musschoot and Mathias Hennebel

Chiuso, meaning "closed," is a parasol design by Lieven Musschoot and Mathias Hennebel that combines functionality and aesthetics. The designers have paid equal attention to both the inside and outside of the parasol, resulting in a unique and visually stunning creation.

While sitting on a terrace, one often notices the unattractive inner frame of a parasol. To address this issue, Musschoot and Hennebel covered the inside of the parasol with delicate lace, transforming it into a work of art. The inspiration for this design came from the desire to hide the unsightly inner frame and minimize waste on the lace fabric. By utilizing leftover materials from another parasol design, the designers created a beautiful parasol that combines elegance with sustainability.

Chiuso stands out from other parasol designs due to its attention to detail and unique features. The complete inside of the frame is covered with fabric, extending the outer beauty to the inside. This design choice ensures that users can fully enjoy the parasol's beauty while relaxing underneath it. The flowing lines of Chiuso emphasize its delicate and soft nature, creating a visually appealing and inviting atmosphere.

The realization of Chiuso involves the use of high-quality materials. The top fabric is made of symacryl, a 100% acrylic material with a weight of 190 grams per square meter. The down fabric is lace, made of 100% polyester. The pole is constructed from stainless steel inox 304 with a transparent coating, while the ribs are made of steel and powder-coated. These materials contribute to the durability and longevity of the parasol.

Chiuso has a diameter of 186 cm and a free height of 210 cm when open. The total height of the parasol is 245 cm, providing ample shade and coverage. The parasol is manually operated, allowing users to easily open and close it as needed.

The Chiuso parasol project started in September 2014 in Bruges and was completed in August 2015. It was exhibited at Maison and Object in Paris in September 2015. The design process involved extensive research and prototyping to ensure functionality, design, and cost-effectiveness. CAD programs were used to design patterns, and laser cutters were employed to cut fabrics and achieve the best possible results.

Chiuso has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Street and City Furniture Design category in 2017. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Chiuso's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contribute to a better world.

Experience the beauty and functionality of Chiuso, a parasol that combines art, design, and sustainability. Its hidden frame and delicate lace fabric create a visually stunning addition to any outdoor space, providing shade and enhancing the overall ambiance.

Image Credits: Photographer Bart Descheemaeker, Studio Bades, 2015.