This chair was made during my freshman year, a time when my understanding of wood as a material was still developing. Despite my limited knowledge, I was captivated by the elegance that simple joineries could impart, transforming raw materials into something beautiful and functional. While rummaging through a scrap bin, I found long, untouched Mahogany boards and embraced the opportunity to immerse myself in woodworking for this project. I was mostly inspired by Sebastian Era’s Montreuil Chair, a minimalist piece constructed entirely with half-lapped joineries.
I admired its ability to showcase the beauty of simplicity while maintaining structural integrity. The visual appeal of these joineries created flush and seamless connections between pieces, demonstrating that exceptional craftsmanship and precision could result in a clean and elegant aesthetic.
Living near the ocean in Orange County, California, I envisioned a spacious, sit-friendly chair designed primarily for outdoor use— front patios and backyards in coastal environments. Prioritizing ample airflow and comfort, I employed half-lap joineries to create a cube-like form, striking a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal.
