Zene: A Unique Dining Chair Inspired by Indigenous African Timber

A Fusion of Danish Modern Design and African Aesthetics

The Zene dining chair stands out with its American ash frame and the use of different hardwood timbers for the seat and backrest combinations. Unlike traditional bending techniques, the curved forms of the seat and backrest are achieved through joining and shaping solid hardwood timber. This innovative approach not only adds strength to the chair but also creates a visually striking design.

The Zene dining chair is designed to be both elegant and dependable. Its minimalist Danish modern design, combined with the warmth and richness of the indigenous African timber, creates a harmonious blend of aesthetics. The chair's unique coopered seat and backrests provide a comfortable and supportive seating experience, making it perfect for extended dining.

The realization of the Zene design involved years of refinement and experimentation. John G Williams, the designer and craftsman behind the chair, meticulously developed custom modifications to standard workshop tools to shape and finish the smoothly curved forms. The result is a chair that seamlessly combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.

With dimensions of 515mm wide, 570mm deep, and 890mm high, the Zene dining chair is designed to fit seamlessly into any dining space. The seat measures 515mm wide and 390mm deep, while the backrest is 515mm wide and 200mm high. These specifications ensure both comfort and functionality.

The Zene dining chair is a testament to the designer's dedication to research and innovation. Williams studied Danish modern designs to explore different ways of rendering the frame and its relationship to the seat and backrest. Prototyping played a crucial role in refining the chair's dimensions and overall design.

Overcoming various challenges, such as achieving high compression on the coopered seat and backrests without compromising their integrity, required careful attention to detail and the development of specialized tooling. Williams's commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident in the final product.

Zene dining chairs are designed to be used primarily at dining tables, providing extended comfort for memorable dining experiences. The first prototype was conceived in Johannesburg in 2007, and after a decade of refinement, the first set of six chairs was produced in 2017.

The Zene dining chair has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018, which recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. This prestigious accolade highlights the chair's integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world.

With its fusion of Danish modern design, African aesthetics, and innovative craftsmanship, the Zene dining chair is a true masterpiece. It showcases the beauty of indigenous African timber while providing a comfortable and visually striking seating experience.