Stature Reading Chair: A Bold and Confident Design

Unapologetic Form and Striking Presence

The Stature Reading Chair, designed by Vincent Molumby, is a bold and confident piece of furniture. Its unapologetic form and stance, along with its rich material, give the chair a significant presence. The fundamental seat surfaces, the seat and the backrest, are joined in one motion to deliver a striking piece of furniture.

What sets the Stature Reading Chair apart from others is its use of 38mm mahogany. The width of the material is in proportion to the chair and reflects the magnitude and strength of the mahogany tree. The angles used in the design create illusions of balance and symmetry, adding to the chair's unique appeal.

The seat of the Stature Reading Chair is inclined slightly, making an angle of 110° with the backrest. Extensive tests and prototypes concluded that this angle provides an ideal seating position for comfortable leisure reading. The joinery used in the construction of the chair combines traditional and modern fixing techniques to ensure the joints' strength. Tongue and groove joints, along with glue, screws, and plugs, are employed to create a sturdy and durable piece of furniture.

The Stature Reading Chair is not just a functional piece; it is also a unique talking point. Each person will see something different in the chair and appreciate different aspects. It challenges conventional norms and intends to provoke discussions about design.

The Stature Reading Chair project started in September 2012 and was completed in November 2012. It was selected for inclusion in the Design@UL Showcase in Limerick City from May to June 2013. The design process involved referring to the Irish National Standards for optimum seat dimensions and producing physical and parametric models to ensure optimal comfort for the user.

The Stature Reading Chair faced its fair share of challenges during the design process. The intrinsic design of the chair meant that each component was directly related to the next. The slightest change in angle or dimension of one piece created a ripple effect, necessitating adjustments to every other component to maintain balance and harmony.

The Stature Reading Chair, designed by Vincent Molumby, is a testament to boldness and confidence in design. Its unapologetic form, striking presence, and unique use of materials make it a standout piece of furniture. It challenges conventional norms and sparks conversations about design. The Stature Reading Chair is a true work of art.

Image Credit: Photographer Sinead Ní Riain, Main Image, 2017.

Awards and Accolades: The Stature Reading Chair was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Stature Reading Chair is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, and contributing to a better world.