Silver Furniture Design · 2020
Haleiwa Chair
- A' Design Award 2020 Silver Winner in Furniture Design
- Awarded April 15, 2020
- CLIENT: Beyond Function
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 63,822
- Verification code 3322338873 · Verify this award
About Haleiwa Chair
The Haleiwa weaves sustainable rattan into sweeping curves and casts a distinct silhouette. The natural materials pay homage to the artisanal tradition in the Philippines, remade for present times. Paired, or used as a statement piece, the versatility of the design makes this chair adapt to different styles. Creating a balance between form and function, grace and strength, architecture and design, the Haleiwa is as comfortable as it is beautiful.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Legacy meets contemporary. Grace meets strength. Sweeping curves seamlessly merge with striking lines. Rattan, a pliant material commonly used in indigenous Philippine furniture, gets a modern upgrade when paired with a solid metal frame. This chair's form and weave pay tribute to the rich history of the material and the artisans that have crafted pieces from it, while breaking away from tradition just enough to create a statement.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- 640mm width x 850mm depth x 830mm height
- Tags
- haleiwa, chair, rattan, woven, handmade, indigenous
- Production Technology
- Rattan is a sustainable material commonly used for weaving due to its durability. A cantilever design would not have been practical, and thus metal framing was used to add stability. As a nod to the handwoven rattan, the metal was manually bent to shape.
- Design Challenge
- Stability was a key concern. The width of the legs that connect the base to the seat posed a challenge. The design of a triangular base was the solution that balanced the structural and aesthetic. Internal support placement also posed a challenge since the design shows all of its skeletal composition. The supports had to be created and then strategically located in order to maximize stability, while being as inconspicuous as possible.
- Project Duration
- The chair was conceptualized in August 2019 and prototype finished October 2019. Designed and manufactured in Manila, Philippines
- Operation Flow
- The chair is wide enough for the user to sit comfortably in any position. Cushions are also provided for additional ease and comfort without distracting from the visual impact.
- Research
- The research focus for the Haleiwa was on the balance and stability based on its unconventional form. The optimum placements of supports and dimensions of elements were studied and tested throughout the prototyping period.
- Inspiration
- This piece was inspired by the concept of balance. The balance between strength and fluidity, modern and traditional, complexity and simplicity.
- Image Credits
- All images: Photographer Berwin Coroza, 2020
Colors of Haleiwa Chair
Get Haleiwa Chair
Sustainable Philippine Furniture Collection
We craft contemporary furniture that honors Philippine artisanal traditions using sustainable rattan and local materials. Our pieces balance modern design with heritage craftsmanship, creating affordable statement furniture for conscious living spaces.
G0E26 ShopDesign Interview about Haleiwa Chair
Keeping things simple and honest makes for a better design than one that has too much things going on.
I wanted to show the Philippine market that local designers and materials have great potential.
from concept to actual product took about 4-5 months.
this design was made as part of the initial collection of a company we are setting up, Beyond Function
This product is produced by our furniture manufacturing company that has been in operation since the 70s.
As an architect working on various residential and retail projects, I saw the lack of locally designed and produced furniture that showcases local talent craftsmanship and materials.
This chair was designed for everyone. It is a sleek, classy and versatile piece that is also very affordable.
The use of an indigenous material, rattan, in such a modern approach is quite uncommon. The silhouette of the chair is a mix of modern and traditional which gives it a cozy feel but with an edgy detail.
Haleiwa is a town in North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii. Growing up, I used to visit Oahu a lot and never passed up a chance to visit my favorite town. Like the chair, for me, Haleiwa is the epitome of a relaxing tropical sight. The chair makes me feel like i am on a relaxing tropical vacation.
I went traditional with this one and did not use any computer programs designing. Concept drawings were by hand and the actual making of the product was all handmade at well.
The most challenging for me was the analysis and balance between design aesthetics and structural integrity. Where to locate support members that it wont take away the look of the design.
I wanted to prove that our local talent is at par with international because I find that its been a trend here to always look for imported goods thinking they are better.