Inspired by the quiet strength of an elephant, Heechan Kim’s Loxo Chair bridges the gap between sculpture and furniture. With a sleek walnut frame and plush cylindrical bolster, this innovative lounge chair captured the Best of Students award at the “WANTED Schools Showcase” during ICFF. Kim developed the project while pursuing his MFA in Furniture Design at the “Savannah College of Art and Design“, translating the calming essence of an elephant into functional art.
The Emotional Essence of Loxodonta
Named after Loxodonta, the African elephant genus, the Loxo Chair evokes the gentle demeanor of the animal rather than imitating its form. The cushioned bolster suggests softness, while the elegant walnut frame adds sophistication with its clean lines and curves. Kim drew inspiration from one of “Maurizio Cattelan’s” elephant sculptures, seeking to imbue furniture with the emotional resonance of a gentle giant.
“I wondered if furniture could embody the emotional connection and comfort one feels around a gentle creature like an elephant,” Kim explains. His aim was to translate the animal’s sense of trust into a visual and tactile experience, extending his background in sculpture into practical design.
Balancing Form and Function
“I wanted to transcend creating beautiful objects by focusing on their practical use in everyday life,” Kim says. He was drawn to furniture design’s potential to merge functionality with artistic expression, reaching a broader audience through production and distribution.
For another inspiring design journey, explore how Alessandro Stabile’s Areo Chair balances beauty and functionality in furniture design.
Although the Loxo’s plush bolster commands attention, the wooden frame is equally essential. It mirrors the cushion’s gentle curve, integrating seamlessly into the overall design.
From Prototype to Production
The Loxo Chair’s development involved meticulous iterations. Budget constraints led Kim to prototype with faux leather, enabling user tests to refine the cushion’s comfort and proportions. These insights guide the next iteration, which he envisions in natural leather or high-performance upholstery.
“I want the chair to evoke a sense of unfamiliarity visually, then comfort upon use,” Kim notes. The sculptural elegance thrives only if it invites users to engage with it, offering a satisfying sitting experience.
Stepping into the Professional World
Winning the Best of Students award underscored Kim’s readiness for the professional realm. “It signified more than a successful project. It’s a stepping stone into my career,” he reflects. He is crafting a new furniture collection that balances artistic integrity with everyday practicality. If the Loxo Chair sets the tone, Kim’s future designs promise a seamless blend of utility and art.
Discover more of Heechan Kim’s work on his website and “Instagram“.
Source: design-milk.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of the Loxo Chair?
Inspired by the quiet strength of an elephant, Heechan Kim’s Loxo Chair bridges the gap between sculpture and furniture. Kim drew inspiration from one of Maurizio Cattelan’s elephant sculptures, seeking to imbue furniture with the emotional resonance of a gentle giant.
How did Heechan Kim develop the Loxo Chair?
Kim developed the project while pursuing his MFA in Furniture Design at the Savannah College of Art and Design. The Loxo Chair’s development involved meticulous iterations and prototype testing to refine the cushion’s comfort and proportions.
What award did the Loxo Chair win?
The Loxo Chair captured the Best of Students award at the “WANTED Schools Showcase” during ICFF.