Design & Architecture

The Longue of It

The Longue of It

Its unique style and organic shape makes the PK24 a chaiselongue to covet.

Words by Aneesha Rai in Design & Architecture · Dec 28th, 2015

PK24 blends both furniture and art just through its design. With a sleek shape and leather upholstery, it is simply impeccable to look at. A product of Fritz Hansen, it has been conceptualised by Poul Kjaerholm and is the most recognisable across his lifetime of works. The chair has been influenced by the Rococo period; a Baroque charm pervades throughout. However, it was designed and executed in 1965. 

The chaise longue is derived from French, it means 'long chair' and is used often in the lounge area of homes. The chair is a wonder in itself, as its parts are held together not by fixtures, but by friction and sheer gravity. Another nickname by Kjaerholm for this chair is called 'hammock', as it suspends the person between two points. 

The designer, Poul Kjærholm was a trained carpenter. He had a particular interest in different construction materials which he utilised in his work; especially steel which he treated as a natural material to design several pieces worthy of artistic finesse. He was first employed with Fritz Hansen, where he designed a series of chair prototypes, many of which have now been added to the company's collection under his name. 

The chaise longue is available in both wicker and leather; the headrest of which remains to be in leather for both versions. At the bottom, giving the chair its unique shape, is a steel frame covered with handwoven wicker on leather that glides on to the frame; due to which it can reach a desired position. The head cushion is covered in leather and a counterweight of stainless steel in order to enable comfort. The bottom frame is made of sleek, satin brushed stainless steel that gives it unchartered elegance.