The Splinter Chair by Matthew Kroeker
This funky chair designed by Matthew Kroeker has been inspired by the ups and downs of domestic relationships. Kroeker says “They’re always in flux—breaking apart and coming back together”, which represents the natural fluctuation’s in relationships. The chair is sold as a set of 2, each with a smooth controlled edge and a sharp splintering edge. When the two chairs are pushed together (see picture below) they form a complete double seater. They can even be arranged with the two ’splintering’ edges on the outside which creates a very contemporary and unique look.
The original frame was made from cast alumium which turned out to be very expensive and complicated to construct, but the manufacturer didn’t take to this solution. They came up with a new design which involved fastening stainless steel rods to the wood without showing any exposed screws.
“I didn’t want anything to distract from the seat and back, so the stainless-steel legs are quite sparing. It’s the next best thing to having the bench just hover above the ground.
The proportions of the two chairs, separate and combined, were very important. Though the bench is small, it’s big enough for two people to sit comfortably apart and away from the jagged edges.
The bench is teak because it wears well outdoors, but I don’t want it to be seen only as a piece of garden furniture. The wood is responsibly harvested, either plantation-grown or from a managed forest.” explains Matthew Kroeker
