Hille is a renowned British furniture manufacturer known for its exceptional range of Modernist chairs. The company has played a significant role in the history of interior design and has been involved in major design projects worldwide. Notable examples include providing furnishings for prominent locations such as the Royal Festival Hall and Gatwick Airport. Hille has collaborated with renowned furniture designers, including Robin Day and Fred Scott, further contributing to its influential presence in the industry.
Robin Day’s polypropylene chair from the 1960s became Hille’s most successful product, with over 12 million pieces sold. In 1983, Hille merged with Ergonom and was subsequently resold.
Recognition
Robin Day’s furniture designs for Hille received recognition, including a gold medal at the 1951 Triennale di Milano, an international exhibition of design and decorative arts.
Today, the company continues to produce high-quality furniture that reflects its legacy of innovation and craftsmanship. Their pieces are highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts.
Case Study: The Robin Day Polyside Chair
The Robin Day Poly Side chair is an iconic design by British furniture designer Robin Day. Introduced in 1963, it is renowned for its innovative use of materials and functional, minimalist design.
The Poly Side chair is made from a single piece of moulded polypropylene, a groundbreaking material choice at the time. Polypropylene is durable, lightweight, and easy to clean, making it ideal for mass production and everyday use. The chair’s simple and versatile design allows it to be used in various settings, including dining rooms, offices, and public spaces.
One of the notable features of the Poly Side chair is its stackability. The chairs can be easily stacked on each other, making them convenient for storage and transportation.
The Poly Side chair became a design classic and achieved significant commercial success. It won the prestigious Design Centre Award in 1963, and its popularity led to the development of other variations, including armchair versions and different base options.
Robin Day’s Poly Side chair exemplifies his design philosophy of creating functional and affordable furniture that can be produced on a large scale. It’s timeless design and innovative use of materials have ensured its enduring popularity in furniture design.
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL
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