Why a wiggly, wavy chair is a must for every interior
Any room, whether a kitchen or a bedroom, needs contrast to make it sing. Too many soft furnishings in a small sitting room can create what Rita Konig describes as a ‘puddingy-effect’. On the other hand, too many strict, straight lines in a kitchen can create an unwelcoming environment. It is in the give and take that a truly great interior is made.
Recently, we've noticed a clever, rather practical way to introduce this contrast into any space: the wiggly, wavy chair. As suitable in the corner of a bedroom as it is in the bathroom, an ordinary chair can be transformed from standard seating into a work of art simply with the addition of a few curves.
In a colourful Toronto house by Rivki Rabinowitz, seen above, chunky bar stools are lent a softer dimension by their wavy backs. In a kitchen full of contemporary, blocky, built-in furnishings, the smooth lines of the custom Hamilton Holmes counter stools soften the overall appearance of the room.
WOW!House 2024, hosted at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour, typically acts as a bellwether for upcoming trends in the world of interiors. In two of the 18 show rooms, dressed up by designers and brands, we spotted wavy chairs used as beautiful centrepieces.
In a Martin Moore kitchen, designed by Studio Vero, wavy chairs were used in place of more industrial feeling bar stools. As Venetia Rudebeck, cofounder and creative director of Studio Vero says, “we chose the stools because of the wonderfully whimsical shape. Such an interesting silhouette, very sculptural. They don’t take themselves too seriously and add a sense of playfulness to what is quite a grown up space.”
Possibly our favourite example of a wavy chair is the iteration by Wilkinson Rivera. Cofounded by husband and wife duo Teresa Rivera and Grant Wilkinson, both studied fine art at university, after which Teresa worked as an interior designer at Fran Hickman for three years, while Grant honed his woodworking skills at London-based globemakers Bellerby & Co. ‘With our furniture, we want to create pieces that are beautiful, soft and tactile,' says Teresa. The chair is a wood-working marvel and would look perfect opposite a squishy sofa.
In Studio Ashby's WOW!House room, created in collaboration with the charity United in Design, another design by Wilkinson Rivera was selected. As Sophie explains, “I chose these Wilkinson & Rivera chairs for the space as I was drawn to their playful form and expressive take on a beloved classic. They bring a sense of familiarity and nostalgia but with a humorous twist, adding a grounding and classic touch whilst maintaining a playful atmosphere. They are a great alternative to the much-loved Wishbone or Spindleback chairs and have a similarly timeless appeal with a distinctive character and charm that sets them apart.”
Whether you opt for bar stools, a large wooden armchair, or charming dining chairs, the wiggly, wavy chair will act as the perfect finishing touch to any interior. One thing is for certain, these charming chairs aren't going anywhere soon.
