The making of the Houdini Chair by Stefan Diez /
Its distinctive aesthetic is just one part of the story. These images show the development of the Houdini and the unusual production processes which bring each chair to life.
The Houdini Chair's complex structure is light in both weight and appearance, and is reminiscent of an origami structure.
The chair is carefully constructed to accentuate the appearance of fragility, but in reality is durable enough to withstand the harshest of contract environments. Diez took his inspiration for the Houdini Chair from techniques used in aeroplane model-making.
Each chair is made from 4mm thin oak-veneered plywood, using precise two dimensional shapes that are stretched and glued to form the distinctive silhouette. The layers of plywood create strength from the base, which enable it to support the seat and back. The slabs are then stretched by hand around a milled solid wood ring to form the back and the seat.
The Houdini Chair and Armchair are currently available for purchase online as part of our Viaduct 100, as is the e15 Bigfoot Table.
View the products below for more information /
Post by Claire Gittins