Have a seat in a classic

Form follows construction

SKOGSBO bentwood chair is craftsmanship and design in perfect harmony. The inspiration comes from classic café chairs with a light and airy character. Designer Friso Wiersma is a trained carpenter with a big passion for wood. When he was assigned to design SKOGSBO, he began by carefully studying the history of the bentwood chairs. “They were manufactured as early as the 19th century and very common in cafés and restaurants. But we wanted to create a unique IKEA version.”

Solid wood can be a relatively stiff material, but with the bentwood technique, the wood is softened with steam so it becomes flexible and can be bent. It's a skill that requires very experienced artisans. “As a designer, I love to let the form follow the construction. To me it makes sense, especially with the bentwood technique,” says Friso. For the chair seat, it’s the opposite – the construction follows the form – all to ensure the best possible comfort. “Café chairs often have round seats, but peoples’ behinds are rarely round,” says Friso with a smile. “So, we decided to press the layer-glued wood of the seat into a more organic form. Then, we asked different people to try it out to make sure it was comfortable for as many people as possible.”

A timeless chair that ages gracefully

SKOGSBO has a lightness, both when you look at it and lift it. With its comfort and timeless design in beautiful beechwood, it’s a chair that will last for coffee breaks and long dinners for many years to come. Classic but neutral enough to blend in with your choice of colours and materials in the interior. “I hope it’s a chair that people will fall in love with – and live with for a long time”, says Friso.