Theme

Looking at the utility chair it is dull boring and doesn't create a sense of fun. So to investigate what is classified as 'fun' could create influence to make the chair look, and feel more exciting.

Child toys are the best source of inspiration. They all show fun, excitement and vitaliy. The difference and variety give an endless show of ideas that could be used.

The Panton Chair

The Panton Chair has always been a favourite of children. They not only like its bright, cheerful colours and smooth curves, but the fact that it is as much fun to play with as it is to sit on. Soon after its introduction, Verner Panton began to consider the idea of producing a child-size version of the chair together with Vitra. The design is fun and innovative, it shows how a utility chair doesn't need to be dull and boring. The price of this chair is around £122. 

How do we actually sit on a utility chair?

It might sound daft but how so we sit on a chair? when we draw images of a chair they are usually drawn at right angles, that the angle joining the seat and the back is at a 90 degrees. Yet in reality this is far from the truth. The images below show a utility chair from the studio, and me sitting on it, showing how the chair fits the arch of the back, and the natural way to sit.

What is a utility chair?

The utility chair has been around for years, and in all shapes and sizes.  It is simply a plain chair, like the ones we see in hospitals, restaurants or for domestically. Just a standard chair. However they are vital.they are used in all sorts of environments, yet have the same purpose. The most classic is the ones we see in schools, with their sturdy legs, easily manufactured plastic frame/seat. Its purpose is simple, to be able to be used in any environment.

< a classic 'utility chair'

Introduction

For this project the re-design of an ordinary utility chair is required. The change can be subtle, weather it be  the colour, construction or material. The utility chair must be suitable for a variety of environments such as, domestic, office, bar or restaurant. However firstly the understanding of what the utility chair does must be addressed, from the style, measurements and how it has changed over it's history.