Paulo Jorge Faias Pereira's Lusitana: A Nod to Portuguese Maritime History

Unveiling the Award-Winning Lounge Chair Inspired by 15th Century Vessels

Paulo Jorge Faias Pereira, a renowned designer, has crafted the Lusitana lounge chair with a distinct aesthetic that harks back to the era of Portuguese maritime discoveries. The chair's design, with its thirteen plywood ribs attached to a keel, mimics the interior structure of these historical vessels, showcasing the beauty of its organic rhythm and lightness.

What sets Lusitana apart from other lounge chairs is its unique construction. The chair is composed of thirteen plywood ribs, glued to a plywood shaft and topped with two molded solid wood armrests. The legs emerge from two of the ribs, creating a solid and stable structure. A cushion placed on top adds comfort and can be customized with various fabrics and colors.

The Lusitana lounge chair is a blend of technology and manual craftsmanship. The chair is made from plywood and metal, using CNC technology for precision, and handwork for a touch of authenticity. With dimensions of 840 mm in width, 900 mm in depth, and 1000 mm in height, the chair is a perfect fit for both home and business use.

The design process of Lusitana began in Lisbon in July 2015, with drawings and a small model. It culminated in a full-scale prototype in July 2017. The design was born from several studies of structures of other armchairs, leading to the idea of showcasing the beauty of a visible wooden structure. The project involved hand drawings, scale models, 3D drawings, CNC machines, and finally, assembly by Portuguese specialized artisans.

The Lusitana chair is not just a piece of furniture; it's a work of art that evokes images of shipbuilding, boats, and the sea. Its wooden structure is simple yet elegant, with smooth curves organized ergonomically for comfort. The fabric upholstery, which can be changed to various colors, adds a final touch to this masterpiece.

Paulo Jorge Faias Pereira's Lusitana lounge chair is a testament to the designer's creativity, technical expertise, and dedication to his craft. It is a beautiful blend of history, art, and design that has rightly earned its place as a Silver A' Furniture Design Award winner.