Much more thana chair

13 August 2007

Shackletons are looking for concept designers to create a new range of chairs.

Sit back, relax, and read on from the comfort of your own chair. A chair is much more than something to hang your coat on. They have evolved from simple wooden designs to highly mechanical, designer products. A chair is simply defined as, ‘a piece of furniture consisting of a seat, legs, back, and often arms, designed to accommodate one person. (answers.com) But, they are so much more than this. They can be a reflection of authority, means of mobility, a way to relax and a statement about the owner. Historically, chairs were reserved for kings, lords and bishops; ordinary folk sat on backless chests, benches or stools. They were articles of state and dignity, not for ordinary use. Authority still exists in some circumstances today, the Queen’s throne, the director’s chair and the head of the table. But it wasn’t until the 16th century that chairs became more common and today they come in every form possible. The unrecognised chair Chairs are remarkable pieces of design that don’t get the recognition they deserve. From the day we are born, we rely on chairs; high chairs to help us eat, car seats to ensure our safety, school chairs for comfort whilst learning. For some, a chair is much more than a seat, but a way of mobility. Wheelchairs have revolutionised people’s lives. Their designs are ground-breaking, incorporating great speed and agility. Technology has helped further chair innovation. The reclining function lets you lay back so you can put your feet up. It will even do all of the work for you as you receive a relaxing massage. Chairs have also had a damaging impact. The electric chair helped to inflict torture and death on criminals. It was the most popular means of execution in the early 19th Century and is still legal in some US states today. Chairs of the future Chairs have been around for centuries, but this doesn’t mean all ideas have been exhausted. Shackletons have been providing specialist furniture, with cutting edge designs, for almost 50 years. Their furniture is not only comfortable and durable, but it doesn’t compromise style. Their ergonomically designed chairs have high-backs for posture support and comfort. Although practically designed they are luxuriously styled and would not be out of place in a luxury five star hotel. Shackletons are now looking to take chair design to the next level by inviting a new generation of designers into their workshop. This summer, they will give three students the opportunity to design their very own concept chair, which Shackletons will bring to life. The new concept chairs will prove the importance of chairs and show that any care home can rival luxury five star hotels. A chair is not just a chair; it’s a piece of history and a way of life.

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Shackletons