A huge sheet of fresh egg pasta draped over an extra-large wooden rolling pin was the starting point of the design process for this beautiful new chair from Erik Jørgensen. Designed by British designer Damian Williamson, Ovo is a refined easy chair that strikes a harmonious balance between its contrasting materials and how they interact with each other.
‘I began to examine how this nonchalant expression could translate into an easy chair. The upholstery of the backrest and armrest has been folded in the same way as the pasta. Even the soft curvature of the lower corners resembles the fluid perimeter of the pasta. The generous soft curved forms appeal to our senses and invite us to engage with the chair. The result is a very tactile object,’ explains designer Damian Williamson.
The idea for the name came as Niels Jørgensen, CEO of Erik Jørgensen Møbelfabrik, and Damian were talking about the inspiration for the chair – the fresh egg pasta. Ovo is a play on words deriving from the Italian word ‘Uovo’, which means egg.
With striking curves resting on a rigid squared steel frame, Ovo features a playful integration between the leather and steel. Providing a structural base, the steel also defines the edge detail where the two upholstered surfaces meet, thus minimising the number of visible stitched seams. These key details are the result of Damian's holistic approach to the project.
The Ovo design is first and foremost about generosity but also great comfort. The chair is welcoming and very comfortable to sit in – it invites you to sit back and relax. Whether you place it in the comfort of your own private home, a relaxing hotel suite or a lobby, it will be the perfect fit.
‘I had initially envisioned Ovo being placed in the home. However, I believe that good design transcends borders; if successful, it transcends the borders between the domestic and commercial environment. There’s no reason why Ovo couldn’t also be enjoyed within the context of a hotel lounge or guest room for example,’ explains Damian.
Damian Williamson's refined aesthetic is the perfect match for the impeccable craftsmanship that Erik Jørgensen Møbelfabrik is known for, something I saw first-hand when I visited the production house in Denmark last year. The introduction of Ovo marks the beginning of a very promising collaboration and I'm excited to see how it evolves!
Images courtesy of Erik Jørgensen
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