Vitra presented the Bascule lounge chair at the 3daysofdesign design trade fair in Copenhagen from June 10 to 12. The furniture manufacturer developed an innovative seat mechanism while the seat and its fabric cover were formulated by Berlin-based design studio Studio Πwith Lisa Ertel and Anne-Sophie Oberkrome.
According to a statement, Bascule (French for rocker) has a mechanism hidden in the armrests that automatically adjusts to the weight of the seated individual and responds to the shifting of their weight. This enables it to provide a seamless transition between sitting upright and lying almost horizontally. Christian Grosen, Chief Design Officer at Vitra, commented: “This automatic weight adjustment creates a gentle rocking motion.”
Bascule does not include any adhesives and relies on separable materials with the highest possible proportion of recyclable components. The padding consists of recycled fibers as well as V-Foam, the world’s first commercially recyclable polyurethane foam, which was developed by Vita together with BASF Schweiz AG. All components can be repaired or replaced and the cover is removable.
The fabric cover developed by Studio Πis generously tailored and follows the movements of the seat. To achieve this, the designers applied cutting techniques from fashion to the furniture.
The lounge seat is available with an aluminum bogie or a wooden frame as well as with a high or low back. In addition, an ottoman and a bench are also obtainable. The covers come in one or two colors and the inner and outer sides can be combined in various ways. The sales launch is expected to take place in September. ce/as