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Tadao Ando’s Dream Chair

An imaginative ode to the classic designs by Hans J. Wegner for Carl Hansen & Son

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Founded in 1908, Danish furniture manufacturer Carl Hansen & Son is largely known for using natural materials, relying on refined design and the unblemished beauty of raw wood, wicker and leather to tell each piece’s individual story—while creating a cohesive brand identity. Although synonymous with legendary Danish designer Hans J. Wegner, who joined the company in 1949 and became one of the most celebrated Mid-Century Modern designers in history, the forward-thinking brand (now run by Carl Hansen’s grandson, Knud Erik Hansen) recently enlisted renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando to take his shot at creating something drastically different, yet equally iconic. The result is the Dream Chair, Ando’s first chair in production, and a tribute to Wegner.

Made of two three-dimensional plywood sheets, the sculptural shape is proof of Carl Hansen & Son’s dedication to innovation through design, pushing the plywood to a shape previously thought to be impossible to achieve. Designed in 2013, the Dream Chair is now officially available this month for the first time, selling for between $4,995 and $7,960 depending on material (oak or walnut) and upholstery preferences. Check Carl Hansen & Son online for dealers.

Images courtesy of Carl Hansen & Son

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