We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Sahar Madanat Design Studio about their original and creative Lounge Chair design work. Sahar Madanat Design Studio is an award-winning industrial designer, that makes our world a better place with their original lounge chair works.
Sahar Madanat Design Studio ("SMDS") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Vanilla Lounge Chair. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
SMDS : Generational Gaps. This chair was designed to symbolize the contradictions between our generation and our parents’ and grandparents’, whereby even though these differences seem to tear us apart at times, our heritage and history always seem to tie us back together.
SMDS : The objective is to manufacture this lounge chair locally; reducing it's carbon footprint as well as to encourage local suppliers. Therefore, All materials and manufacturing process are quite simple and do not require sophisticated machinery. Furthermore, provide an opportunity for handicraftsmen to participate in even modern furniture production and expanding their scope of work to stay competitive. This is achieved by sourcing the decorative brass sheet metal component to them.
SMDS : At the moment I am studying production options as i have received great feedback and many requests. However, whether I take on this process myself or through another company is a possible option. One way or another I plan to see this lounge chair realized!
SMDS : The concept has been lingering on my desk since 2008. But it was finally revived, modified and finalized in 2010; a process that took several months.
SMDS : It was pursuit of an inspiration.
SMDS : Not yet, but soon! The design is not being used by any company just yet. As mentioned earlier, all options for production are being carefully considered at the moment until the best fit can be found. It's important to find the right match when handing over your work; therefore all options are being studied before proceeding to production.
SMDS : Vanilla Lounge chair is targeted towards everyone who enjoys luxurious, stylish yet comfortable lounging experiences, design collectors, and fits great as statement furniture in homes, executive offices, lounges and lobbies.
SMDS : Vanilla was chosen from a selection of names because it emphasizes the purity of white; the space in moments of reflection in our thoughts, which were a source of inspiration for this design. Yet the brilliant, smooth and silky white color of vanilla we are so familiar is not without its own contradictions, it comes from a very dark and woody brown bean!
SMDS : The clever balance made between modern comforts and beautiful handmade decorative components casting beautiful shadows.
SMDS : Certainly. I thoroughly researched the ergonomics of seating, seat height, width, cushioning and the lower back support curvatures. In addition, I looked at best practices and incorporated the most comfortable features including tilt mechanisms and where they can be found and their suppliers. Furthermore, I researched bent woods and manufacturing techniques, visited factories and met with local carpenters. I found at least 4 qualified local suppliers willing to help build this chair. Keeping in mind that one of my main goals is having greener furniture and encouraging local suppliers to work on projects that allow them to think outside the box.
SMDS : The most difficult part of this project was to design a lounge chair that can be produced in very minimal industrial processes, without affecting the aesthetic quality of the chair.
SMDS : Thank you for the opportunity to share my work.
