Platonic Lounge Chair: A Sculptural Blend of Comfort and Elegance

A Modern Chair Inspired by the Cube

The Platonic Lounge Chair stands out with its distinctive design and attention to detail. Made of geometric walnut cubes joined by stainless steel tubes, the chair resembles a larger cube when viewed from the profile. The cubes frame the thin curve of the seat, which is made of Avonite, a smooth and tactile solid surface material. This combination of materials creates a striking contrast and adds to the chair's visual appeal.

What sets the Platonic Lounge Chair apart is its focus on both aesthetics and comfort. The walnut cubes and stainless steel tubes not only contribute to the chair's structural integrity but also create a visually engaging design. The Avonite seat, with its ergonomic curve, conforms to the human body, providing a comfortable seating experience. The chair's upper row of cubes also acts as armrests, adding to the overall comfort and functionality of the design.

The realization of the Platonic Lounge Chair required the use of three distinct materials: solid American walnut, polished stainless steel, and Avonite. The walnut cubes were carefully selected to showcase the grain structure of the wood, while the stainless steel tubes were hand-polished to a mirror-like finish. The Avonite seat, with its 6mm thinness, was thermo-formed to achieve the desired ergonomic curve. The design went through a rigorous prototyping and testing process to ensure its perfection.

With its dimensions of W840mm x D760mm x H660mm, the Platonic Lounge Chair is a statement piece that fits well in modern interiors. Its substantial yet manageable weight, handcrafted with high-quality materials, adds to its appeal. The chair is also customizable, allowing for different combinations of materials, colors, and textures without compromising its core design.

The Platonic Lounge Chair was first sketched in 2009, and the final 3D drawings were completed in 2016 in New York. Prototyping began in May 2016 and lasted until early 2018, with a team of young makers in Brooklyn, NY. The chair made its debut at the May 2018 Brooklyn Designs Exhibition, showcasing its unique design and craftsmanship.

Research played a crucial role in the development of the Platonic Lounge Chair. The design team focused on finding the best method to connect the walnut cubes with the stainless steel tubes, ensuring a secure and structurally sound mechanism. Additionally, research was conducted on the Avonite material to understand its strength and flexibility, considering its thinness and the weight it would need to support.

The Platonic Lounge Chair presented several challenges during its creation. One of the main challenges was achieving a secure and structurally sound connection between the different materials. The design team also had to find a way to utilize Avonite as the seat material in a unique and innovative way. The extensive curving and thinness of the seat required careful consideration to ensure both aesthetics and structural integrity.

The Platonic Lounge Chair is a testament to the designer's vision and dedication to creating a unique and visually striking piece of furniture. Inspired by the cube, this chair combines contrasting materials and shapes to create a sculptural blend of comfort and elegance. With its customizable options and attention to detail, the Platonic Lounge Chair is a true work of art that adds a touch of sophistication to any interior.