Kirk

Kirk
Designer: René Holten
Manufacturer: Artifort
Price: $,$$$

A recent design, the Kirk armchair not only maintains the Artifort æsthetic, but gives it a delightful "how-in-the-world?" twist. With its Niemeyer-meets-Paulin shape, paired to the slender "landing-gear" legs, one cannot be blamed when words like "space age" and "UFO", and come to mind. Since, however, those terms carry some unfortunate baggage - no doubt tempting the humourless to dismiss it as merely another pop-inspired piece of furniture - it would be unfair to dismiss the real triumph of this work. The deceptively deep seat is encircled by a very clever approach to the various elements of a traditional armchair - the "surprisingly good back support" provided by the perfectseat depth; the widening of the form to fuction as "arms"; and the slight outward curve of the seat edge. With the rock stable stance of the legs and the fully rotational operation, Kirk is far more than meets the eye. Available in various fabrics and upholstery. Artifort designs shine in bold colours, so lose the chromophobia, please.