The BB Chair: Aesthetically striking and surprisingly comfortable
The BB chair by Corpus Studio is a striking manifestation of poetic design, where material experimentation and artistic expression converge to create a singular piece that is as functional as it is evocative. The inspiration for the BB collection lies in a playful yet sophisticated interplay of ideas, drawing connections to the softness of infancy, the allure of cultural icons like Brigitte Bardot, and even the ingenious simplicity of Babybel cheese’s wax shell. These references, layered with wit and sensuality, underscore the creative ethos of Corpus Studio.
The BB chair embodies a fusion of tectonic exploration and structural innovation. It is constructed from a basic yet profound form: the wheel. This elemental shape, crafted from aluminum, is meticulously divided, repeated, and assembled to form a chair that transcends the ordinary. The design achieves a remarkable balance between aesthetics and functionality, with a nape that cradles the back, ensuring comfort while maintaining visual intrigue.
The process of creation amplifies the chair’s poetic essence, employing sand casting as both technique and narrative device. A single hand-carved wooden mold generates a sand resin negative, which is then filled with molten aluminum six times—one for each limb of the chair. This meticulous repetition underscores the harmony between concept and execution.
True to Corpus Studio’s philosophy, the BB chair navigates dualities with finesse. It is simultaneously minimal and maximal, combining brutalist undertones with glamorous finishes, and exuding a playful humor alongside its sensual elegance. This dynamic approach reflects the studio’s overarching principles: to push aesthetic extremes in harmonious opposition, using the tension as a catalyst for innovative design.
Corpus Studio, led by founders Konrad Steffensen and Ronan Le Grand, operates at the nexus of architecture, interiors, and design. Based in Paris and working internationally, the studio adopts a multidisciplinary approach that integrates architecture, decorative arts, and fine art into a cohesive vision. Every project begins with a practical analysis, developed in collaboration with clients, to uncover rational yet sensitive solutions that maximize potential.
The studio’s work is marked by an intricate play of volume, light, shadow, and materiality, composing spaces and objects that evoke poetic and emotive responses. Whether monumental or understated, their designs prioritize comfort and aesthetic integrity, fostering a deeper connection to the built environment. The BB chair exemplifies this ethos, enriching daily life through its thoughtful design and artistic resonance.
Corpus Studio: https://corpus.studio/
