whale chair by woocheol shin incorporates smooth curves found in nature

with its curved, fin-like backrest, the inspiration for this seating design by woocheol shin is easily recognizable. the aptly named ‘whale chair’ brings shapes and motifs from nature to create a furniture piece that is both physically and visually comforting. 

images courtesy of woocheol shin

the backrest and seat plate are inspired by the shape of a whale, and most unmistakably the form of the animal’s tail. these characteristic smooth curves invite you to sit down. and when you do, they comfortably surround you. in addition to the chair’s shape, the use of wood as the main material also aims to create a warm yet elegant aesthetic.

the smooth curves invite you to sit down

the chair is made with a steel structure and bent beech plywood. the legs are simple and rational to harmonize with the conceptual feeling of the backrest and seat. woocheol shin also wanted to add an extra touch of elegance with the black sumi ink finish to the plywood and the optional black powder-coating to the steel.

the black sumi ink finish retains the grain of the wood

steel structure detail

close-up of the whale-inspired backrest 

steel leg powder-coated in black

whale chair in both steel and black powder-coated finishes

project info:

project name: whale chair

design: woocheol shin

materials: beech plywood, steel

size: 1060 x 760 x 980mm

year: 2020

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom