Pia’s Picks: seating with the courage to leave a gap
While I hate holes in my socks, they fascinate me when it comes to furniture. These ingenious openings in the back of chairs not only give the pieces a special aesthetic, but also offer practical advantages that enrich my view of design.
In the office where I worked in my twenties, there was a Saarinen Conference Chair by Eero Saarinen for Knoll. The chair is a real design icon – timeless in look, super comfortable and with a high quality finish. Even when I wasn’t in meetings, my eyes were glued to it. It was mainly the cut-out in the backrest which somehow drew my attention. My fascination with the «opening in the backrest» element continues to this day.
Lately, I’ve been coming across chairs, bar stools and armchairs with similar openings quite regularly. There’s a character to them and they appear much airier, even if they’re large.
Source: Dutchbone
Source: Zuvier
Perhaps my fascination is rooted in natural curiosity we humans have – the urge to explore the unknown and discover new perspectives, almost like exploring a cave. Or it’s simply the practical advantages that such a design brings.
1. Ergonomics and freedom of movement
The flexible backrest allows you to lean back and move around. The opening ensures that air circulates better, which is pleasant when you sit for longer periods.
Source: Bepurehome
2. Lightweight and practical
Another plus point is, the chairs weigh less thanks to the hole. Less surface area also means less dust that can spread.
3. Visual appeal and interplay of shapes
These holes also invite you to take a closer look and realise the shapes it’s created. They break up the monotonous surface and automatically attract attention. Perfect for making a statement in any room.
In my Pia’s Picks series, I regularly showcase my favourite finds – things I might not need, but definitely want.
Header image: Venture Home
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Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
