When a chair is more than just a chair. Made in solid beech wood and finished in matte black lacquer, Vroonland draws on what we actually use a chair for, adding complementary functions: a coat stand, handbag hanger and a card holder. Simply brilliant.
What was your inspiration for the Extension Chair?
As a designer I’m constantly researching craftsmanship to innovative and integrate new materials and production techniques within the designs. My pedigree shows the total process.
How would you describe your design philosophy?
For my collection I ask myself the question: is a chair purely functional? Is it a showpiece and a visual story? Or is it an expression of technical know-how and therefore representative of its era? With this topic I deconstruct 19th and 20th century design classics and translate the craftsmanship of the pieces into new materials to develop new techniques. To generate this I use self-designed construction tools which are, on one hand, a construction method of the seat, on the other hand a tool to generate a continuous linear form. Some examples are the ‘Bead chair’ and the ‘Rubber chair’.
Design versus functionality, how can they co-exist in product design?
My collection starts with a conceptual stage where no concession is made towards comfort but only on visual design and silhouette, otherwise known as concept chairs. At this stage I chose certain materials, which allows total freedom of form. This is followed by a complete and final design where technology is demanding its share.
What do you think lies in the future of design?
We explore and research a lot which leads to a thread in our design process instead of following trends. We have integrated concept chairs in our pedigree, which gives us the inspiration for the evaluated Vroonland collection.
What does design mean to you?
A designer adds meaning and quality to its design. Through research into the history and origin a designer is able to influence the future by giving opportunities to translate the use and perception of a product in a good way. As a designer I want to show that craftsmanship has the future, without using mass production as a starting point and to compromise on quality and technology.
