Universale Chair (No. 4867)
Designed by:
Colombo J
Co-Designed by:
-
Designer:
Joe Colombo
Co-Designer:
-
Date of Design:
1965-67
Date of Manufacture:
1967
Decade:
1960s
Region:
Europe
Significance:
Full size chair inspired by the 4999/5
Manufacturer:
Kartell
Material:
ABS
Process:
Injection moulded
Monobloc:
Yes
Cantilever:
No
Renewable Carbon:
No
Weight:
Note:
Country of origin: Italy. Image: Kartell. The Universale was the result of two years of research and development. Starting with the K4999/5 as the template Colombo was challenged to develop a chair suitable for adults. He began by experimenting with ABS plastic selected as having high impact resistance, flexibility and structural strength. (the material used by Marco Zanuso and Richard Sapper), however, as ABS plastic was susceptible to yellowing, Colombo moved on to cheaper polypropylene by 1984. The end result was similar to the K4999/5, in that it featured four detachable legs, allowing the height of the chair to be adjusted and made it adaptable for a range of markets. The large central hole in the back of the chair is dual purpose; allowing the chair to be carried easily and to ensure that water does not pool on the chair when used outside.