Jojyan: A Chair Inspired by Persian Rugs and Traditional Craftsmanship

A Unique Chair Design by Arshad Ardalani

The inspiration for the Jojyan chair came from the Persian rug and traditional instruments used in west Iran. Ardalani wanted to create a chair that would not only be a contemporary piece of furniture but also support and enhance the traditional rug workshops. The result is a chair that not only showcases the beauty of Persian rugs but also provides a new visual experience from different viewpoints.

One of the unique features of the Jojyan chair is its shape, which resembles a flying rug or a butterfly. The hanging rug on the legs gives the chair the impression of hovering, adding a touch of magic and whimsy to any space. The seat surface is made of a handmade rug, featuring natural materials, traditional colors, and popular figures. This design not only offers a comfortable seating experience but also provides an opportunity to support and recreate traditional workshops.

The Jojyan chair is made using a combination of metal and rug. The metal structure of the legs is laser-cut from a steel sheet with a thickness of 8 mm. The rug is linked to the legs using skirt-hooks sewn to the sides of the rug. This innovative construction allows the chair to hold itself and provides stability while maintaining its lightweight and airy appearance.

With its unique design and cultural references, the Jojyan chair offers various ways of interaction. Whether you're sitting, leaning, or bending over, this chair provides a comfortable and versatile seating experience.

The Jojyan chair project started in January 2017 in India and was completed later that year after several design developments. It was first exhibited in December 2017 at the Persian design festival in Tehran. The chair has received recognition for its exceptional design, winning the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2018. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements.

Arshad Ardalani, the designer behind the Jojyan chair, conducted extensive research to create a design that would not only be visually appealing but also functional and supportive of traditional rug workshops. By experimenting with different materials and techniques, Ardalani was able to overcome creative and technical challenges to create a chair that seamlessly combines tradition and modernity.

The Jojyan chair is a testament to the power of design to bridge the gap between the past and the present. By incorporating elements of Persian rugs and traditional craftsmanship, Arshad Ardalani has created a truly unique and captivating piece of furniture that celebrates the cultural heritage of Iran while offering a contemporary seating solution.