Alain Gilles PI Chair and LOUVER Dining Table
Alain Gilles studio recently unveiled two new designs, the PI Chair and the LOUVER Dining Table, in collaboration with Bonaldo at Milan’s design fair. Both pieces embody the designer’s signature blend of contrasting elements, merging rigorous structure with warmth and inviting aesthetics.
The PI Chair is a Meeting of Two Worlds
The PI Chair is the result of two distinct worlds coming together. On one hand, its design is defined by a rigid, graphic structure in solid wood, composed of multiple straight and parallel lines. These elements echo a sense of restraint and precision. On the other hand, this rigid framework is softened and complemented by generous curves and volumes that make the chair feel welcoming and comfortable.
At the heart of the design is a bold, oversized seat cushion, whose unexpected thickness gives it a unique visual presence. The cushion appears as though it has melded with the wooden structure, almost as if it has melted into place or been inflated. This blending of structure and comfort makes the chair stand out. The ergonomically curved backrest also plays a vital role, wrapping around the sitter to offer additional comfort and support.
The most iconic element of the PI Chair is its backrest, which takes inspiration from the mathematical symbol “Pi”. This visual feature serves as the central connecting point for all other elements of the chair, making it instantly recognizable. Its back view, which often faces the observer when placed around a table, is particularly striking. The chair’s straight back legs are visually linked to the horizontal backrest through a series of tangent connections.
At the top of the backrest, the rounded ends of the legs form a graphic tension with the top line of the backrest, while the closely positioned back feet further amplify this tension. Despite the chair’s seemingly strict structure, each wooden element features rounded edges or details, adding subtle softness to the design.
The LOUVER Dining Table is Perception and Repetition
The Louver Dining Table also designed by Alain Gilles studio for Bonaldo, plays with the concepts of perception and repetition. Its architectural design reveals itself gradually, appearing more open or closed depending on the viewer’s angle. The table’s three distinct legs mimic the appearance of vertical blinds, allowing varying amounts of light to pass through based on the direction of the viewer’s gaze. This optical play causes the legs to appear either light and airy or massive and solid.
The base of the table is reminiscent of an ancient architectural gate or temple entrance, evoking an atmosphere of history and grandeur. The curved columns of the legs are gently touched by light, casting shadows reminiscent of a sunlit landscape. The contrast between the table’s slender ceramic top and its bold base adds to this sculptural effect. Alternatively, the table can be crafted with a more substantial veneered top, creating a monolithic, unified appearance.
Both the PI Chair and the LOUVER Dining Table reflect Alain Gilles ability to merge precision and warmth, creating functional yet visually striking pieces that elevate any space.
All images courtesy of ALAIN GILLES, shared with permission
