Left&Right: A Multifunctional Armchair Set for Left and Right Handed People

Ari Korolainen

The inspiration behind Left&Right came from the idea of creating a cozy and functional seating arrangement for both left and right handed people. Korolainen envisioned a scenario where individuals could relax and enjoy their favorite activities without any inconvenience. The armchair set features two separate chairs, each equipped with armrests and trays, allowing users to comfortably place their cups or drinks.

What sets Left&Right apart from other armchairs is its versatility. The chairs can be arranged in different ways to suit the users' preferences. In the first position, the chairs are placed with approximately 50 cm of space between them, resembling a traditional seating arrangement. In the second position, the chairs are positioned closer together, with about 20 cm of space between them, and connected by the two trays. In this configuration, the armrests are shifted to the same side, enabling the left handed person to sit on the right side and vice versa.

The construction of Left&Right combines both wood and soft upholstery. The base of the chairs and the tray piece are made of wood, providing stability and durability. The seats and armrests are soft and upholstered with fabric, ensuring maximum comfort for the users.

Measuring at 800 x 800 x 600 mm, each chair is designed to complement the other, forming a cohesive set. While the chairs are packed separately, they are meant to be used together, creating a harmonious seating arrangement for any living space.

Left&Right is not only a functional and aesthetically pleasing armchair set, but it also addresses the specific needs of left and right handed individuals. By providing a designated space for cups and drinks, this design eliminates the inconvenience of having to find a place to put them down. Additionally, the ability to position the chairs closely together creates a warm and intimate atmosphere in any room.

The development of Left&Right was not without its challenges. Designing furniture that caters to both left and right handed people required careful consideration and planning. However, Korolainen successfully overcame these challenges and created a truly innovative and practical design.

Left&Right was completed in January 2019 in Lahti, Finland. The project has gained recognition and was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in the same year. This prestigious award acknowledges the well-designed, practical, and innovative nature of Left&Right, as it meets professional and industrial requirements. The design is respected for its integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, ultimately contributing to a better world.