Its forms bring to mind some archetypal models from the history of design, which it is always risky to take on. Front consists of Sofia Lagerkvist, Charlotte von der Lancken and Anna Lindgren, the current members of the group at the helm of one of Sweden's most successful design studios. The designers take up the challenge and bring it to completion with skill and elegance. The design, only apparently simple given the minimalism of its look, epitomised in the cross-over of the arches formed by the armrests and backrest, actually masks intricate construction details. The inner structure is created in a memory shape material, selected construction to obtain a soft seat but also a flexible one. The upper part of the backrest is flexible and has a core made of harmonic steel which, given its nature, acquires elasticity typical of from hollowed solid wood (a common process in the Nordic tradition). The two-colour optical effect also emphasises the contrast and combination of parts, which are actually perfectly balanced. And there you have it, a truly "gentle" chair.
Other winners in 2013