corso chair by robert stadler is a contemporary rework of a parisian bistro icon

robert stadler has designed a new version of the drucker rattan chair, an icon of parisian bistros first created in 1885 by french furniture company maison drucker. combining traditional know-how of rattan manufacturing with the advantages of an aluminum base, the corso chair overcomes two weaknesses of the original design: the humidity that infiltrates by capillarity and the difficulty of stacking due to the reinforcing cross.all images © studio robert stadler

since its creation, the drucker rattan chair has become popular worldwide both for its style and functionality, while its structure and the characteristic weaving of its seat and backrest combine lightness and flexibility. several steps are needed to make a drucker piece: preparing components from rattan poles measuring 3 to 5 meters, ie cutting, sanding, tinting knots, straightening and finally bending; then come the weaving of the frames and backs; then the planking, ie the laying of a bulrush ring around the frame and the chair; and finally, the finish includes the installation of domes protecting the feet and the application of a layer of varnish. the new corso chair by robert stadler retains its lightness and low cost with a contemporary twist of combining flexible rattan with rigid aluminum parts. ‘to achieve this result, it was necessary to solve some technical difficulties related to an overall conception,’ notes the paris-based designer, ‘while many tests have been necessary to develop a stable construction.’

project info:

name: corso chair

designer: robert stadler

manufacturer: maison drucker