Elements of Good Chair Design

xxxxxAll good chair design has four major elements that must be considered at all times: function, appearance, durability and beauty. These elements are the cornerstones of good chair design.

Function:

xxxxxThe function of any piece of furniture is perform the job it was intended for. A chair for example, is composed of a seat, legs and a backrest and sometimes it may have arms but its main objective is to support someone backside while they rest, wait or even relax.

Joshua Markel Red Lounge Chair

This chair is composed of a seat, four legs,a backrest and also has set of arms. This chair certainly satisfied the definition.

Now look at another example

Chris Martin Club Chair

xxxxxThis chair is also composed of a seat, four legs,a backrest and also has a set of arms. This chair also satisfies the definition. Both chairs perform the same functions. They provide a resting place and support the individual who is resting. Take a look at the following chairs and see if the form fits the function.

Appearance:

Lets compare the appearance of both chairs.

Joshual Markel---------------------------------------------Chris Martin

xxxxxBoth chairs have a unique look. Depending on your taste, you may prefer one over the other or neither. Each chair's major components are the same but their appearance differs. The Martin chair sleek lines and Art Deco Style may invoke a feeling of nostalgia. Martkel's curved lines and inviting red fabric provide a sense of relaxation when seated. The deep plush fabric engulfs the sitter to kick back and relax. Both chairs appearances say something to the person who may sit in the chair.

Durability:

xxxxxOne of the true elements of good furniture design is sound construction methods. How often do we come upon furniture that is made for the short term that when we go to use it falls apart. So often today, quality is sacrificed for cost. Let examine both chairs again.

Joshual Markel----------Chris Martin -

xxxxxBoth chairs appear to be well made and use fine material from an outsider's observation point. Only if we took apart both chairs and looked at inner parts could we be able to determine their construction methods. All object wear down after time but how well the two wear depends on the selections of materials used, costs and various construction methods.

Materials:

xxxxxThere are infinite possibilities of the materials that can used when constructing furniture. From traditional wood to metal and fabric there are numerous combinations. How well a furniture designer can put together various parts depends upon what the designer is trying to accomplish by satisfying the other three elements: function, appearance and durability. Take a look at some of the the various wood materials that can be used when designing furniture

Beauty:

xxxxxNow matter what the appearance of a piece of furniture may be or the materials that are selected to build it, a masterpiece must satisfy these first three objectives: function, comfort and durability if it is going to offer a timeless appeal. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and if furniture is going to be attractive it will have to transcend time and culture.