In Greek mythology, “Atlas” was a Titan who was punished to hold the world on his shoulders. Metaphorically, the chair Atlas carries a Battery Park visitor’s weight for eternity. The aim of the project is to create an iconic, movable chair that is durable and light while easily integrating with the oval design of the Battery Green.
The choice of reclaimed plywood as material for the chair is derived from our interest in continuing a mid-century modern tradition, as well as reusing a material easily available from the construction industry. Taking advantage of current technology such as CNC machinery, it is easy to efficiently and economically create a comfortable seat and back by having wooden slats of different sizes and forms. The intention is to generate a dialectic tension between the solid wood and its voids, between the sides and the inner slats of the chair. In addition, the design exposes the richness of the material by creating a rich pattern using three types of perforations that vary from 1/4”, 1/2”, and 3/4” in diameter.
A metal donor plaque can be easily and discreetly incorporated on the back of the seat, attached vertically on a one inch wooden slat. A radio frequency ID tag can be easily attached using the same method for security. The design is fully ergonomic, as a conventional chair but also as a chaise by using the lower part of the chair as a back for leaning. The height of the seat measures 19 inches, making it compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act as a piece of equitable urban furniture.
