Ten years ago Berlin/Leipzig based design studio Delphin Design developed the S 360 conference and auditorium chair for Thonet. In 2006 followed the slimmer S 260, which not only featured a folding version but much more importantly could be interlocked with the S 360, thus allowing users the opportunity to expand their seating options without having to replace their complete stock.
And now Delphin Design and Thonet have launched the S 160.
We presume the S 60 will be available in 2016 before Delphin Design are forced to retire due to a lack of logical arithmetic progression.
Although formally reminiscent of the S 360 the S 160 has a single moulded plywood beech back/seat element rather than the formers separate seat and back elements; the development giving the S 160 a more flowing, sympathetic and coherent deportment. Available with full, with partial or without upholstery the S 160 is somewhat thinner than its predecessor and can be stacked up to 22 high: making it ideal for use in exhibition halls, museums, schools, or wherever one needs public seating on a regular but not permanent basis.
Most importantly however the S 160 is fully compatible and interlockable with both the S 360 and S 260.
And most interestingly according to Thonet an outdoor version is currently in planning. Watch this space!
In the minds of many consumers Thonet is all about Viennese bent wood and Bauhaus bent metal; however, with the S 160 by Delphin Design, or modular shelving such as the 7000 System by f/p design Thonet wonderfully demonstrate that they are also capable of realising contemporary projects that are both functional and relevant.
