Architecture Meets Beanbag

Seats Who

The challenge was to design a ‘sitting experience’ in my signature style or voice that explores the act and experience of sitting, whilst still meeting the natural needs of the body in context. This interests me.

WHAT IS IT

Architecture meets beanbag is a project where I endeavored to improve the image and function of the beanbag from childish, cheep and aesthetically unappealing to a high status, luxury signature chair.

Solution

My solution is to build a wooden Skelton to work in unison with the beanbag. In doing so, it keeps all the benefits of a beanbag such as comfort and malleability. However lifting it off the ground for easier use and adding dynamic contrasting structure. Creating interest and a striking contrast between soft and hard structure.

Context

During my background research into classic chair designs I found myself repeatedly attracted to chairs designed by architects such as Paimio.

I found architects approach chairs from their own discipline, resulting in imposing, structural designs that struck a chord with me. What I also learned was that chairs can have the own character - they can even change the atmosphere of a room and become an extension of the owner's personality.

Then came the question: What character do I want my chair design to have? And vice versa, what consumer do I want to attract?

Caricature chair

Charles & Ray Eames' ‘Lounge Chair’ is a classic mid-century Californian executive style powerful atmospheric chair, which I was inspired by.

Beanbag

Beanbags are the underrated chair of the world. They are designed simply, highly adjustable and comfortable to all sizes of people. I own two and love them. It is an instantly recognisable chair shape.

The downside however, is that they are often printed as large unstructured blobs that can look unkept.

Another clear drawback is that they are low to the ground, making it difficult to get in and out of, especially for older people.

Being low to the ground also means it can be difficult to adjust and puff up the beanbag when it fall out of shape.

Project Aim

Based on these ideas and insights - I settled on a brief: How to improve the character and function of the beanbag while also imposing power and wealth.