The f(x) Chair is a unique seat that looks like it has had wads of wet paper towels whipped at its spiderweb-like backrest. In reality, however, the f(x) chair simply has Polyurethane foam blobbed onto the nylon backrest at odd points to give it an unusual aesthetic while also allowing "for true customization by doing away with moulds or wasteful subtraction manufacturing processes," as according to the designer.
Conceived by New Zealand-based Richard Clarkson, the f(x) Chair was created through the use of Processing & Grasshopper, a powerful generative 3D modelling plugin for Rhino. The app allows people to mix and match any standard context with any seating task, resulting in designs such as the f(x) Chair. Aside from the foam, it has a basic steel structure.
Strangely Goopy Seating
The f(x) Chair by Richard Clarkson is Based on True Customization
Trend Themes
1. Customizable Seating - The f(x) Chair showcases the trend of using unconventional materials, such as Polyurethane foam, to create customizable seating options without the need for traditional manufacturing processes.
2. Generative Design - The f(x) Chair demonstrates the trend of using generative design software like Processing & Grasshopper to create unique and innovative furniture pieces.
3. Unconventional Aesthetics - The f(x) Chair embodies the trend of incorporating unusual aesthetics, like the wads of wet paper towels, to create visually striking and memorable seating designs.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Design - The furniture design industry can explore disruptive innovation opportunities by using unconventional materials and generative design techniques to create customizable and visually unique seating options.
2. 3D Modelling Software - The 3D modelling software industry has an opportunity to enhance their generative design tools to allow for even more creativity and customization in furniture design.
3. Interior Design - The interior design industry can embrace the trend of unconventional aesthetics and offer clients more unique and visually striking seating options for their spaces.