Iconic Design Meets Contemporary Artistry
In 1972, designer Peter Opsvik introduced the world to the Tripp Trapp, a revolutionary child’s chair known for its adjustable seating and distinctive angular design. Manufactured by Stokke, a Norwegian company founded in Ålesund in 1932, the chair quickly became a staple in family homes worldwide. It has also earned its place in design history by featuring in modern art exhibits. Its simple yet ingenious design allowed it to grow with the child, providing adjustable seat and footrest heights, and the option for a safety bar.
The MoMA Edition: A New Chapter for the Chair
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) has collaborated with Stokke on a special edition of the Tripp Trapp chair. Celebrating both art and functionality, the new version incorporates vibrant hues inspired by MoMA’s color palette. This special edition allows people to mix and match with highlights in yellow, pink, orange, and blue to create a personalized and colorful seating experience.
For more on creative uses of color, explore Adam Goodrum’s vibrant lighting designs that turn childhood games into lively art.
“At MoMA Design Store, we value products that blend exceptional design with everyday usability,” explains Jesse Goldstine, MoMA’s Chief Retail Officer. “This collaboration pays homage to a landmark children’s product in MoMA’s collection and its timeless legacy.”
A Design Legacy Featuring the Children’s Chair
Wallpaper* sat down with Tor Opsvik, Managing Director of Peter Opsvik AS, and Martha Jørgenvåg, Stokke’s VP of Innovation, to discuss the Tripp Trapp’s legacy and its latest evolution with MoMA. According to Tor, the chair’s iconic status became evident in 1973 when it featured on a television program, leading to a surge in demand and solidifying its place in families worldwide.
As Tor explains, “Its distinctive silhouette quickly attracted attention and helped cement its status as more than just a product, becoming a family staple that bridges generations.”
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Consistency in Innovation
Martha Jørgenvåg emphasizes that the Tripp Trapp’s enduring design speaks volumes about its original vision. “Innovation doesn’t always mean change; sometimes it’s about maintaining what works. The Tripp Trapp remains largely unchanged since 1972, which preserves the qualities that resonate with families.”
A Unique Collaboration
Tor notes that while the Tripp Trapp has seen various updates, this collaboration with MoMA introduces a novel angle. “This unique edition celebrates the chair’s visual identity while allowing families to personalize it with reversible seat and footplates,” he explains.
A Creative Partnership
The collaboration was a natural fit. Tripp Trapp’s inclusion in major museum collections, including its feature in the 2012 exhibition “Century of the Child: Growing by Design 1900-2000,” reflects its design significance. Leveraging MoMA’s signature color palette, the chair showcases playful expression while honoring Peter Opsvik’s timeless design. As a piece of furniture, it continues to bridge the gap between art and everyday use.
Source: wallpaper.com
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the MoMA edition of the Tripp Trapp chair?
The MoMA edition of the Tripp Trapp chair incorporates vibrant hues inspired by MoMA’s color palette, allowing people to mix and match with highlights in yellow, pink, orange, and blue to create a personalized and colorful seating experience.
Who collaborated with Stokke for the special edition Tripp Trapp chair?
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) collaborated with Stokke on a special edition of the Tripp Trapp chair.
What makes the Tripp Trapp chair iconic?
The Tripp Trapp chair’s distinctive silhouette and adjustable seating design, introduced by Peter Opsvik in 1972, allowed it to grow with the child and quickly became a staple in family homes worldwide.