Dhyan: A Chaise Lounge Concept for Zen and Relaxation

Sasank Gopinathan's Award-Winning Design Brings Nature Indoors

For many, the daily stress of work can be overwhelming. The desire for a serene, contemplative environment at the end of a long day is a common one. This was the inspiration behind Dhyan. Gopinathan aimed to create a space that promotes peace of mind, particularly for urban dwellers who lack frequent contact with nature. The design is a testament to the calming effect of nature and its ability to foster a relaxing mindset.

Dhyan stands out for its unique modularity, offering users three different environments to choose from: Standard mode (with storage), Garden mode (with side planters), and Water-Pond mode (with a waterfall fountain). This design embraces Eastern philosophies, encouraging solace through interaction with elements of nature. The Garden mode immerses the user in greenery, while the Water-Pond mode offers the soothing sound of falling water, a feature often associated with good Feng Shui.

The technical specifications of Dhyan are as follows: general dimensions of the concept are L 2010mm, W 1010mm, H 875mm (standard mode), H 1062mm (including LED lamp). The chair can function as a standalone piece or be connected to a power source to operate the USB charger on the tablet, the LED lamp, and the water pump in the pond mode. The lamp and tablet are optional extras and can be retrofitted. The standard mode also includes additional storage compartments.

The design project took three months from concept to completion. It began as a sketch inspired by the Shiva Linga and evolved into a multi-functional chair designed to provide an escape from stress. One of the main challenges was maintaining the original Shiva Linga form while ensuring the design remained light and elegant. The solution came from observing premium European furniture and adopting a minimalist approach.

Dhyan is a blend of modern design and traditional Eastern ideas. It transforms Eastern philosophies into varied configurations, allowing the user to choose their path to relaxation. The design was awarded the Golden A' Furniture Design Award in 2020, a testament to its innovative approach and exceptional design quality.