UN Lounge Chair Designed by Hella Jongerius: A Masterpiece of Applied and Decorative Arts

The UN Lounge Chair, designed by Hella Jongerius, is a quintessential example of contemporary applied and decorative arts. This chair, commissioned for the United Nations North Delegates’ Lounge, embodies the integration of functionality and aesthetics. Jongerius, a Dutch designer renowned for her innovative approach, collaborated with a team of prominent creatives, including Rem Koolhaas, Irma Boom, Gabriel Lester, and Louise Schouwenberg. The redesign project, completed in 2013, sought to transform the lounge into a space conducive to informal discussions and diplomatic breakthroughs.

Historical Perspective: The Legacy of the UN Lounge

The United Nations North Delegates’ Lounge, originally designed in the 1960s by a team including Le Corbusier and Oscar Niemeyer, has long been a pivotal space for international diplomacy. Jongerius’ renovation in 2013, part of a broader UN renovation project, aimed to honour this legacy while introducing modern elements. This historical context is vital in understanding the significance of the UN Lounge Chair within the realm of applied and decorative arts.

Design Philosophy: Balancing Function and Aesthetics

Jongerius’ design philosophy is deeply rooted in balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal. The UN Lounge Chair exemplifies this approach. It features a scoop-shaped seat with foam cushioning and blue-green duo-tone fabric, based on the 1962 textile “Daphne” from De Ploeg’s archives. The chair’s colour palette, drawing from the 1950s, blends blues, greens, and browns, creating a visually cohesive environment.

Movement and Mobility

One of the chair’s defining features is its mobility. Equipped with wheels on the front legs and a leather handle on the back, delegates can effortlessly move and engage in conversations. This design element reflects Jongerius’ understanding of the lounge’s informal nature, as emphasized by Ban Ki-Moon’s statement about diplomatic breakthroughs occurring over cocktails.

Materials and Techniques

The UN Lounge Chair incorporates materials and techniques highlighting Jongerius’ craft and innovation expertise. The chair’s frame is constructed from rectangular steel tubing, powder-coated in brown, providing durability and a sleek finish. The arms are upholstered in brown leather, adding a touch of luxury and comfort.

Upholstery and Textile Design

Using woven textiles for upholstery enhances the chair’s aesthetic and tactile experience. The duo-tone fabric provides subtle colour variations, creating a dynamic visual effect. Jongerius’ choice of materials and techniques underscores her commitment to quality and sustainability in design.

Collaborative Efforts

The redesign of the UN Lounge was a collaborative effort, with contributions from several notable designers and artists. Graphic designer Irma Boom, visual artist Gabriel Lester, and architect Rem Koolhaas played significant roles in reimagining the space. This interdisciplinary approach enriched the project, blending different perspectives and expertise.

Visual References: Capturing the Aesthetic

Visually, the UN Lounge Chair is a testament to modern design principles. The blue-green hues evoke a sense of calm and professionalism, while the sleek lines and minimalist form reflect contemporary trends. The chair’s mobility and functionality are cleverly integrated into its design, making it a perfect fit for the dynamic environment of the UN lounge.

Conclusion

Hella Jongerius’ UN Lounge Chair is a masterful blend of form and function, embodying the principles of applied and decorative arts. Its design reflects a deep understanding of the space it inhabits and the needs of its users. Through innovative use of materials, colour, and mobility, Jongerius has created a piece that serves its purpose and enhances its environment’s aesthetic quality.

Sources

Frearson, A. (2013, September 20). United Nations North Delegates’ Lounge by Hella Jongerius and Rem Koolhaas. Dezeen. Retrieved from https://www.dezeen.com/2013/09/20/united-nations-north-delegates-lounge-by-rem-koolhaas-and-hella-jongerius/.

Victoria and Albert Museum. (2014). UN Lounge Chair. Retrieved from https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O1299646/un-lounge-chair-armchair-jongerius-hella/.

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