why are folding chairs trending: The Timeless Appeal of Aviva
"To me, lightness is a form of elegance. It is one of my most important design principles, far beyond the pursuit of weightlessness." — Marc Berthier
The Aviva folding chair, designed by the renowned Marc Berthier in the late 1970s for Magis, has remained a favorite for over four decades. Discover why this timeless piece continues to trend and why you will fall in love with it too!
The Resurgence of Folding Chairs
Folding chairs are making a comeback, and their popularity is on the rise. The reasons are simple: they combine practicality with modern design, making them perfect for today's fast-paced lifestyle. The Aviva chair is a prime example of this trend, showcasing how a well-designed folding chair can meet both aesthetic and functional needs.
The Timeless Aviva: A Minimalist Masterpiece
Created 43 years ago, the Aviva chair was designed to cater to the urban demand for quick, convenient solutions. Its lightweight and practical design meets the needs for space efficiency and comfort, all while adding a touch of modern elegance. Initially produced by Magis for around 20 years, the chair was reintroduced in 2010 with an updated design.
Versatility and Space Efficiency
Aviva’s youthful and versatile design makes it ideal for both private and public settings. Whether used as extra seating at a dining table or around a caffee table, it ensures robust durability in the smallest of spaces. When folded, it requires minimal storage space, making it perfect for modern homes where every inch counts. Despite its simple structure, the chair remains comfortable, with an ergonomically designed backrest.
"Behind lightness lies freedom, suitable for the convenience-seeking modern society. When I design something, I examine the spaces around it to ensure they are beautiful, harmonious, and fitting. This is an incredibly difficult aspect of creation, but I achieved it instinctively, resulting in Aviva." — Marc Berthier
Why are Folding Chairs Trending
- Space-Saving Solutions: With urban living spaces becoming smaller, folding chairs like Aviva provide a perfect solution by maximizing space efficiency without compromising on comfort or style.
- Versatility: Modern folding chairs are designed to be versatile, fitting into various environments from homes to public spaces, making them a practical choice for many.
- Design and Functionality: Today's folding chairs blend sleek design with functionality, appealing to those who appreciate both aesthetics and practicality.
The Visionary Designer: Marc Berthier
Marc Berthier, one of the earliest designers to collaborate with Magis, has created numerous iconic items and series over more than three decades. His international work includes collaborations with:
- Lexon in France
- Magis in Italy
- Black Design in Germany
- Hedworth in Hong Kong
- Dé Signe in Japan
Berthier’s impressive list of awards includes:
- French National Design Award
- René Gabriel Prize in France
- Compasso d'Oro from the Italian Industrial Design Association in 1991 and 1994
- Hannover International Forum Design Prize in 1995, 1997, and 1998
- Desing Plus European Design Award in 1999
- American Design Award in 1999
Some of his works are part of permanent collections at prestigious institutions such as the National Museum of Modern Art in France, the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris, the French National Contemporary Art Foundation, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Berthier has also been honored with the title of Knight of Arts and Letters and the Arts and Industry Medal. In 2002, he founded the Eliumstudio design studio in Paris with his daughter Alice, Pierre Garner, Frédéric Lintz, and later Anne Klepper.
