The ARBA Chair, designed by Erwan Bouroullec for raawii, is an exploration of tactile and material qualities that reflect thoughtful production and affordability without compromising on elegance. Displayed at 3daysofdesign in Copenhagen, the exhibition invited visitors to interact with the objects, which were all for sale, thus exploring the relationship between market, gallery, and studio space. This approach aims to answer the question of how designers can become more involved in the distribution and production of their works, giving them more power in the industry.
The chair is designed to be flat packed, allowing the end user to construct it themselves. It features two molded plywood forms that offer a balance of give and security. The proportions and shapes have been meticulously calibrated, and the physical weight has been refined to balance both visual and environmental impact. The forms and finish strike a delicate balance between prototype aesthetics and expert proportions.
The design process took place over several days in Bouroullec's countryside studio in France, where the focus was on being fast, lightweight, and using available resources. This hands-on approach resulted in a lounge chair that is easy to read and intentionally rough, which aids in better manufacturing later on.
The ARBA Lounge Chair will be available starting in September 2024 in three base colors: Dark Green, Light Grey, and Burned Orange. It will also offer a multitude of painted and veneered finishes, with upholstery options from Kvadrat Textile and Spoor Leather, allowing for further customization and comfort.