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On Belay Oddychové kreslo by Chong Zhi Yu

On Belay Oddychové kreslo by Chong Zhi Yu is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 Bronzová cena A' Design Award in Dizajn nábytku Competition Category.


BronzováNábytok· 2026

On Belay Oddychové kreslo

by Chong Zhi Yu

Client: Nanyang Academy of Fine Arrts

Bronzová cena A' Design Award Winner in Nábytok Category

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Verified Award Winner

Verify Award Status for #178950

Colors

The Design

About On Belay Oddychové kreslo

On Belay je oddychové kreslo, ktoré opätovne využíva vyradené lezecké laná. Laná, ktoré už nie sú vhodné na lezenie, si zachovávajú svoju pevnosť a pružnosť, a preto sú votkané do sedadla a operadla. Tkaný povrch je mäkký a pružný a rovnomerne rozkladá hmotnosť, čím poskytuje oporu bez tuhých častí. Rám je vyrobený z dreva kapur s preplátovanými a rozvidlenými spojmi spevnenými dvojitými kolíkmi v rohoch. Tradičné techniky tkania sú skombinované s lezeckými uzlami, ktoré pripevňujú laná k rámu. Kreslo má rozmery 600 x 850 x 650 milimetrov.

The Recognition

About the Bronzová cena A' Design Award

On Belay Oddychové kreslo je laureát Bronzovej ceny A' Design Award, vysoko prestížneho uznania udeľovaného vynikajúcim dizajnom, ktoré sa vyznačujú kreativitou, vynaliezavosťou a bystrosťou. Laureáti Bronzovej ceny sú plne zručné a nápadne kreatívne artefakty, ktoré potvrdzujú rozsiahle skúsenosti, predstavivosť a zdatnosť svojich dizajnérov. Od On Belay Oddychové kreslo sa očakáva, že bude vysoko cenený, obdivovaný a milovaný predmet, pozoruhodne profesionálny a inovatívny. Tento dizajn ocenený Bronzovou cenou A' Design Award zahŕňa najlepšie postupy v umení, vede, dizajne a technológii a vyniká pozornosťou k detailom. On Belay Oddychové kreslo skvele uspokojuje potreby, dotýka sa túžob, očarúva city a vzbudzuje zvedavosť.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties
On Belay ingeniously repurposes discarded climbing ropes as integral structural and tactile elements of a lounge chair. Though no longer fit for safety-critical use after extended wear or falls, these ropes retain strength and flexibility ideal for furniture applications. Woven meticulously into the seat and backrest, the design redefines lifesaving equipment into a durable, sustainable, and comfortable seating experience that bridges heritage craft with modern ecological responsibility.
Dimensions & Packaging
Width 600 mm x Depth 850 mm x Height 650 mm
Tags
Sustainable , Upcycled materials, Climbing rope, Lounge chair, Tension weaving, Recycled furniture, Knotting techniques, Outdoor , Ergonomic seating, Conceptual furniture
Production Technology
The seating structure combines traditional weaving techniques learned in Thailand with climbing rope knotting methods to bind reclaimed ropes securely onto a Kapur wood frame. The chair’s frame uses time-honored joinery methods including lap and bridle joints reinforced with dual dowels at frame corners to ensure strength and durability.
Design Challenge
The hardest part of this project was that it was our first, so many aspects were unfamiliar, especially weaving and knotting techniques. These skills required extensive practice and patience to master. Additionally, limited information and guidance made the learning curve steep. Overcoming these challenges deepened my understanding of material manipulation and craftsmanship, which was crucial for realizing the design successfully.
Research
I focused on upcycled materials and chose climbing ropes for this project. I researched various weaving techniques and climbing knotting methods, alongside exploring line art for visual inspiration. During mock-up stages, I drilled multiple holes to find optimal positions and consulted with my mentor to determine the best structure and joinery for the chair frame. I tested different diameters of climbing ropes and ultimately selected 5mm support rope for its balance of aesthetics and comfort. I am very satisfied with the final product. This design taught me that upcycling can be both practical and visually appealing.
Inspiration
Inspired by the themes of safety, trust, and connection inherent in rock climbing culture, On Belay transforms retired climbing ropes symbols of protection and resilience into core materials for furniture. These ropes embody stories of endurance and rebirth, and through creative upcycling, the design offers a poetic metaphor for rest and renewal, highlighting sustainable innovation intertwined with emotional narratives.
Project Duration
This Project started in August 2025 in Singapore NAFA and finished in NAFA's workshop.
Operation Flow
The woven climbing rope seat provides a soft, flexible surface that naturally conforms to the human body, evenly distributing weight to deliver ergonomic support without rigid components. Its minimalist yet stable construction fosters a sense of security and calm, evoking the trust foundational to climbing safety. This tactile interaction invites relaxation and mindfulness, transforming the chair into a restorative haven for body and mind.

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