Round Backed Bench: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Designers Zhenyi Chen and Baijie Huang Reinterpret Classical Furniture

The inspiration for the Round Backed Bench stems from the traditional chair and bench. The traditional armchair, a symbol of rank and identity, imposes strict requirements on the user's sitting position. The stool, on the other hand, is a common piece of Chinese folk furniture, embodying leisure, practicality, and versatility. The design combines these two elements, creating a unique piece of furniture that caters to modern lifestyles.

The bench is constructed using wood, leather, and metal, with the traditional tenon structure primarily used for the connection between components. This structure ensures the stability of the bench, a challenge that the designers had to overcome. Key joints are wrapped in metal to further enhance stability. The bench measures 750mm in width, 520mm in depth, and 800mm in height.

The Round Backed Bench offers a new sitting experience. It completely changes the traditional way of using a chair, allowing young people to adopt different postures according to their preferences. This design reflects the modern reinterpretation of the culture and function of classical furniture by young people.

The design and production of the Round Backed Bench took two months and was exhibited at the 40th China International Furniture Fair in Guangzhou in 2017. The design team, which included Quanzhen Zhang, Chao Zhang, Qigang Deng, Siyuan Ye, and Meiwei Zhang, worked together in the design room and the factory to bring this unique piece of furniture to life.

The Round Backed Bench was awarded Silver in the A' Furniture Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. The bench, admired for its strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcases a remarkable level of excellence and introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.