Tio Collection by Massproductions

October 13th, 2011

Chris Martin (left) and Magnus Elebäck of Massproductions

NL: What is the concept behind the Tio Collection?

CM: Many people think chairs made in metal wires are uncomfortable. I thought it would be interesting to challenge that assumption. I started with full size polystyrene comfort models and then built a logical wire construction from that, which would also allow for stacking.

NL: What are the design features?

CM: The Tio collection is quite transparent, so it doesn’t compete with architecture or interior spaces. This makes it very adaptable to many situations. The chairs are stackable, comfortable, available with an optional seat pad, relatively light for a metal chair (5.35kg), and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

NL: How does it express the Massproductions approach/aesthetic?

CM: We always try to harness the benefits of serial production in our work. We find this makes a better product at a better price. The wires are bent on a computer controlled bending machine and then welded together by hand. It’s this combination of mass production and skilled handwork which defines our products. You can also see this in our new Crown chairs, which are made from moulded foam components which are then upholstered by hand. I think furniture in particular is suited this approach to production.

NL: What is the target market for Massproductions and how does this collection appeal to them?

CM: We tend not to think too much in terms of target markets, but rather produce things which we ourselves have a passion to see in the public realm. I’m quite conventional in my approach to design – I favour sculptural forms, rich materials and pragmatism, things which have been challenged in recent years. Having said that, our work does tend to end up in places like hotels, restaurants and bars a lot, as well as people’s homes.