Hug Armchair: Embracing Comfort and Innovation

Designers Vinicius Lopes and Gabriela Kuniyoshi Create a Unique Reclining Experience

The Hug Armchair was inspired by the act of hugging, aiming to evoke feelings of warmth, safety, and tranquility. The designers sought to create a long-lived, comfortable, and resistant product that could serve as an efficient alternative to traditional armchair designs. The result is a piece that not only offers comfort but also brings to the fore good memories, providing a respite from the fast-paced and stressful daily life.

What sets the Hug Armchair apart is its unique construction. Designed for a reclined sitting posture, the armchair anatomically hugs its users and provides head support. Its shell, made from an extremely thin and resistant steel plate, maximizes internal space and minimizes the use of materials. This concept favors comfort as internally there are only foam and feathers. The base is made from Freijo solid wood, which complements the design of the upholstered body. The armchair also comes with an ottoman for added comfort.

The realization of the Hug Armchair involved a combination of industrial and handmade processes. The Freijo wood base was crafted using traditional woodworking techniques, while the steel plate shell was laser cut, folded, welded, and padded with foam. The seat cushion features foams of different densities, and the arms and backrest are filled with feathers. The entire structure is upholstered by hand with a fabric and genuine leather cover.

The design process for the Hug Armchair began in December 2016 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and was unveiled to the public in June 2017. The project involved extensive research on the manufacturing processes of shells, including the materials used and their environmental impact. The designers aimed to develop a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional shell production, which led them to the use of steel plate. This material choice not only minimized the environmental footprint of the product but also allowed for the creation of a three-dimensional, ergonomic, resistant, and very thin shell.

The Hug Armchair has been recognized for its innovative design and was awarded the Golden A' Furniture Design Award in 2018. This prestigious accolade is granted to outstanding and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom, embody extraordinary excellence, and significantly impact the world with their desirable characteristics. The Hug Armchair certainly fits this description, offering a unique and comfortable seating experience while pushing the boundaries of furniture design.