The Washington Skeleton Chair, designed by the renowned architect David Adjaye in 2013 for Knoll, is a striking example of the fusion of architecture and furniture design. A piece that reflects Adjaye’s sculptural and structural sensibility, the chair offers a bold aesthetic while maintaining functionality. The intricate geometric latticework and modern material choices make the chair an icon in contemporary design.
Design Philosophy and Inspiration
Adjaye’s approach to the Washington Skeleton Chair stems from his architectural background, specifically his ability to balance form and function. The chair is part of the Washington Collection, developed concurrently with his work at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. The design expresses a synergy between structural integrity and aesthetic lightness. The chair’s cantilevered form and open-weave lattice create a dynamic between solidity and airiness, simultaneously giving it a sculptural and weightless presence.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe “Exoskeleton” Concept
Adjaye described the Skeleton Chair as an “exoskeleton,” where the structure becomes the decorative element. This concept is evident in the chair’s intricate, almost skeletal, lattice pattern. The negative spaces formed by the openwork are as integral to the design as the solid portions, contributing to its sense of balance and movement. This approach emphasises space and depth, which are key design principles while maintaining the chair’s practical usability.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Crafted from die-cast aluminium, the Washington Skeleton Chair showcases exceptional craftsmanship. The material was chosen for its durability and ability to be moulded into complex shapes. The copper-plated finish gives the chair a warm, luxurious patina, elevating its aesthetic appeal. Over time, the copper finish develops a natural patina, adding a layer of organic evolution to the piece.
The chair’s legs and shell are cast in three parts and connected using mortise and tenon joints. This traditional joinery technique demonstrates the chair’s high-quality construction and attention to detail. Additionally, the chair is available in several finishes, including black, green, and grey, further enhancing its versatility in various settings, whether indoors or outdoors (excluding the copper finish).
Functionality Meets Art
While undeniably a work of art, the Washington Skeleton Chair is also fully functional. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort, with the lattice pattern conforming to the body’s contours. The cantilevered structure, supported by angled legs, gives it a sense of balance, one of the core principles of design. This balance between visual lightness and structural support creates a chair that is not only beautiful but also stable and usable.
Adjaye’s Impact on Furniture Design
The Washington Skeleton Chair represents David Adjaye’s debut in furniture design, marking a significant contribution to contemporary design. Known primarily for his architectural achievements, such as the Smithsonian Museum, Adjaye brought a fresh perspective to furniture design with this collection. By translating architectural principles into an everyday object, he created a piece that connects people with their environment in new and unexpected ways.
The chair’s form, inspired by his experiences growing up in African cities and his architectural projects, reflects global influences and a deep understanding of materials and form. Adjaye’s ability to merge these diverse influences into a unified piece demonstrates his design philosophy of creating objects that resonate on multiple levels.
Conclusion
David Adjaye’s Washington Skeleton Chair is more than just a piece of furniture; it is a sculptural work that embodies the relationship between architecture, art, and function. Its intricate design, high-quality materials, and conceptual depth make it a timeless addition to contemporary design. As part of the Knoll collection, the chair remains a celebrated piece for collectors and design enthusiasts, representing the cutting-edge creativity and innovation that Adjaye continues to bring to his work.
Sources
Salbini. (n.d.). Knoll Washington Skeleton Side Chair. https://salbini.com.au/au/knoll-washington-skeleton-side-chair.html
Dedece Blog. (2013, October 18). The Washington Collection by David Adjaye for Knoll. https://www.dedeceblog.com/2013/10/18/the-washington-collection-by-david-adjaye-for-knoll/
RISD Museum. (n.d.). Washington Skeleton Chair. https://risdmuseum.org/art-design/collection/washington-skeleton-chair-201432
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