Spun

Spun began as an exploration into whether the process of metal spinning could be used to create something to sit on. As the finished object would be a completely symmetrical rotational form it would have to be able to work as a chair whichever way round it was rotated.

To understand the geometry and the ergonomics, the studio experimented with making full-size models which it gradually tweaked and refined until it discovered the optimum shape. When the first full-size prototype was spun in aluminium it was not only comfortable but surprisingly enjoyable to sit on, with its capacity to rotate and rock in three dimensions.

Having produced a limited series of highly finished metal chairs, the studio then collaborated with the Italian furniture manufacturer Magis to develop a version using rotation moulded polypropylene. Unlike the smooth metal versions, the plastic chair is covered with a detail of fine ridges, like the grooves on an old vinyl record, which add comfort and reinforce the rotational shape of the form.