The Architect's
Chair

BRAVO. Of course, the choice of solid wood consumes a little too much nature, but this project has the intuition to replace mass with intelligence, tension, balance and even a touch of humor. It is original thinking that stands out of trends, and therefore right and durable. It is a surprise that summons the imagination. Bravo.

The design is beautifully crafted, and cleverly assembled.

This lounger combines craftsmanship, simplicity and comfort. At first glance, the shape may seem unusual - until one understands the reason: the construction. This happens quickly thanks to the visible details of the wooden joints. Classic wooden joints have been well researched and translated in a modern way. The unusual scaling and alignment is very appealing.

An expressive, clear, well thought and original construction. It might be unpleasant for the seated person to be locked between the two bars, preventing sideways movement, especially when raising from the chair.

The Brochette lounge chair exemplifies elegant and thoughtful design, paying homage to the mortise and tenon joint. Its structure focuses on comfort and eco-friendliness, featuring carefully chosen materials known for durability and unique grain patterns. The chair's simplicity—using no screws and relying solely on interlocking wooden elements—demonstrates a refined approach to sustainable craftsmanship. However, while the design excels in structural stability and aesthetic appeal, it could benefit from further exploration of user comfort in diverse environments, especially given its rigid, angular form. It would be ideal if the backrest and seating position were adjustable.

A unique piece of furniture composed of a series of components tied together with a "skewer," showcasing a creative and fun approach. This innovative method adds a playful element to the design. However, its actual use and functionality may be limited. The pinch points around the leg areas and the cavity for the seat could pose practical challenges. While the design is imaginative and engaging, addressing these functional issues would improve its usability and overall appeal.

We are surrounded by products we don’t know much about. Brochette gives us the opportunity to understand the tectonics behind the chair, being them surprisingly pedagogic, intuitive and simple, which is the most difficult to achieve in design. It is important to understand the design of objects so that we can ultimately build an emotional connection. The stronger such a connection, the longer the product can be used and the more sustainable it is. I would simply ask the designer to work on the details of the chair to improve the comfort of the user.

Besides the research on joints, ergonomics were also examined and findings taken into account. In addition, a local biomaterial, Douglas, was chosen. Thanks to the wood joints, no additional material is necessary what shows the sustainable approach. The lounger impresses with its research in all areas and its monumental, unexpected character. I would love to test it.

A praiseworthy reinterpretation of the rattan tradition. The "naked" version with solely rattan skin on the seat is primarily beautiful. However, I believe the version with leather seat and back is necessary for achieving the seating comfort.

The RATTAN SPLICE CHAIR demonstrates a high level of understanding of the human senses, craftsmanship and material properties. Thanks to the use of rattan or Mycel leather in combination with the gently curved rods, the chair is very light and yet offers a high level of comfort. The details, such as the joints, the skilful use of wickerwork or Mycel leather, are beautifully crafted and give the chair a unique, friendly aesthetic.

The Rattan Splice Chair effectively reinterprets traditional rattan furniture with a modern twist, showcasing a clean, geometric structure that aligns with contemporary design sensibilities. The use of mycelium leather highlights a commendable commitment to sustainability. However, while the aesthetic appeal is clear, the proposal could benefit from further exploration of ergonomic considerations, particularly how the spliced structure impacts comfort during extended use. Additionally, the reliance on automated techniques might distance the design from the handcrafted essence that often defines rattan furniture's unique character. The support between the legs is differently necessary, but I wonder why it is missing on the prototype?

One sees a timeless, calm, simple and elegant chair. The background to rattan furniture has been well researched, existing knowledge taken on board and turned into something new. The chair distances itself from conventional rattan furniture by means of the visually simple connections. I wonder whether the effort involved in the various CNC-milled connections matches the output. To judge this, it would be necessary to take a closer look at the production processes. However, the design language is very friendly and the chair looks stable and trustful.

The Pontum Chair impresses with its elegant design inspired by bridge engineering, skillfully merging structural aesthetics with functional furniture. However, while the suspension detail is visually striking, the practicality and comfort of this unique seating solution might be questioned over extended use. The concept’s strong connection to the Elisabeth Bridge is compelling, but it might benefit from further exploration of ergonomic features. The design's focus on form over function could limit its appeal in a competition that prioritizes innovative ergonomic solutions alongside aesthetic value.

The bridge construction is interesting and beautiful.

The idea of this chair is worth it testing and confronting with real use.

Intriguing concept and narrative, which has translated into a beautifully crafted chair.

The inspiration of the architecture of a bridge is well explained and clearly visible. The bridge is a strong symbol, which could be transferred into the chair design. The play with tension is visible and perceptible (at least I imagine so). But I wonder whether the direction of the wood grain on the seat makes sense - even if the surface is held in place by the cord, a large weight is placed in the direction of the grain so it might break over time.

Very intelligent use of materials and their properties and a good example of how transversal knowledge can be used to create brilliant designs. Excellent packaging and user involvement. This is absolutely the kind of furniture I would love to assemble myself; woven wood is something I’m looking forward to! One critique: I do not think it was necessary to focus the presentation on the Elizabeth Bridge.

Raw materials and an environmentally friendly surface treatment are used. As a result, the chair can be easily dismantled into its single components (if necessary). The chair is made of durable, high-quality materials. The product also impresses with its flatpack option and simple assembly. The chair is very inviting and has a monumental character - just like the inspirational image of the bridge.

I love everything about this chair, the knowledge behind the technology, the respect for the craftsmanship, the sense of untimeliness, the designer's courage to challenge it and the intrigue that this split backrest creates in a fun and unexpected way. It’s the kind of piece of furniture you will treasure because you can feel its soul. I can imagine passing this chair down through generations, is there anything more sustainable than that?

The concept of 'split' is well translated into the overall design as well as the craftmanship. It's beautiful and functional at the same time, and its attention to details is excellent.

The idea behind the split-production of the chair is great. It is understandable how the concept came about through curiosity about architectural contexts. The development process seems very honest and personal. The open backrest is irritating at a first view because it is unusual. It would be exciting to feel the comfort. Is it more comfortable through the opening or does the opening leave pressure points next to the spine?

The choice of wood types is well researched and justified. Regarding ergonomics: a seat angle of 0 degrees seems uncomfortable and the seat height of 52 cm is very high (it is usually 45-47 cm), which can lead to pressure points on the upper thigh. Over all, a nice chair with beautiful details, and very well crafted.

The Split Chair showcases an intricate balance between contemporary design and traditional woodworking techniques, emphasizing the beauty and innovation that comes from steam bending wood. The chair challenges conventional design norms by splitting timber along its length before bending it, creating a seamless yet dynamic form. The dowel joints serve as both functional and aesthetic elements, enhancing the chair's structural integrity while adding a refined detail.

The Split Chair, focuses on tectonic design and crafting through a unique method of splitting timber. This creative approach sets it apart as a distinct and innovative piece. The use of recycled timber highlights a strong commitment to the circular economy and sustainability. Additionally, the detailing and craftsmanship appear to be meticulously considered, contributing to the overall quality of the piece. Altogether, this entry presents a unique and well-crafted piece of furniture, demonstrating both creativity and environmental consciousness.

The Split Chair’s combination of form and function, coupled with the designer's hands-on approach, results in a piece that is both a testament to traditional craftsmanship and a modern interpretation of an occasional chair. This approach not only highlights the material's natural beauty but also demonstrates a thoughtful consideration of the user experience, making the Split Chair a notable piece in contemporary furniture design. A down side is that its intricate construction might limit accessibility for mass production and broader market appeal.