Interview about Monarc Chair, winner of the A' Furniture Design Award 2024
Science, art and aesthetics have all contributed to the creation of magnificent works that can influence public taste undeniably. Creating a unique chair has always been considered in which all parts would provide different states for creating new shape depending on the user's interaction. A common belief exists that inspiration from the surrounding environment could lead to the creation of masterpieces that are in accordance with human needs. By means of this concept, positive results can be achieved in the design of products that are directly used by users.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsI always try to look at my surroundings from a completely different perspective. Regarding the chair, I had this idea: Why should a chair be a completely fixed object that only serves the purpose of sitting? Could it not be designed in a way that offers two separate functionalities from its two sides? Additionally, in all of my designs, I have considered user involvement in shaping their environment according to their needs.
The ultimate goal of any design is to provide sufficient strength for users while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Just as arch bridges efficiently withstand and transfer the pressure from the load of vehicles on them, it is expected that a similar form can be used to bear the weight of the user. Since wood has very high tensile and compressive strength, it can be a suitable material for this purpose.
One of the main objectives of this design was to ensure that the user is not constrained by their surrounding environment, even in small aspects. Allowing an individual to use a product in two different ways based on their needs enhances their sense of belonging to the space, as it gives them the power to interact with and modify it. As a result, their stay in that space is likely to be longer, since they can shape the environment according to their preferences over a longer period.
Maintaining beauty in simplicity can guarantee the longevity of a design, as it not only makes it easy to use but also simplifies the production process, which can easily meet user demand. Achieving this was possible by choosing a design with modular components that can be assembled quickly and with minimal difficulty.
The main challenge was controlling the range of motion when the product is used in a rocking cradle mode. It required components that would not compromise the appearance and beauty of the product while still being able to gently control and limit the motion of the curved form. In the end, small elements were placed among the main components in a position that provided the appropriate range of motion for the curve. At the same time, these were properly integrated so that they remain hidden when the other side of the chair is being used.
Throughout the design process, I consistently focused on three aspects: user needs, aesthetics, and comfort. During this process, I always imagined myself in the place of the hypothetical user, considering their potential needs and the solutions that should be provided for them until I achieved the desired result.
I believe that for someone using this product as a chair, there should be a distinction between a unique chair and just a piece of wood they sit on. Sitting can happen anywhere, but the ability to engage the user’s mind, encouraging exploration and reaction, can have a positive impact on people's mood.
Yes, these were exactly the expectations from this product in its two different modes. In the chair mode, the product needed to be sturdy to maintain balance and support the weight of users, while in the cradle mode, it required a fluid and smooth motion while maintaining visual cohesion.
Attention to nature, drawing inspiration from it, and using materials available within it ensures the durability and longevity of the products made with it. The fact that this product poses no danger to the environment, and its easy production process requires minimal human resources and energy, can be seen as a positive aspect of its production, which was considered during the design process.
Just as a person change over time, their needs and desires will also change. Creativity, of any kind, reaches a desirable outcome when it can provide an appropriate response to these diverse and evolving needs. One must be aware of these changes and be ready to offer a service worthy of the human condition. There are no limits to imagination and design. You just need to believe in your ideas and be determined to bring them to life.
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