Made by Choice's autumn 2020 novelty, the Kaski chair designed by Joanna Laajisto, draws on 19th-century rural Finland and the rugged aesthetics of the era.
MADE BY CHOICE'S KASKI CHAIR by Joanna Laajisto is a charming combination of rustic aesthetics and clear, modern shapes. The name of the chair is a reference to the olden days in the rural areas of Finland: “Kaski” means slash-and-burn clearing, an agricultural technique that used to be very common in the country.
Despite its raw appearance, the armchair is graceful and lightweight, and therefore suitable for a wide range of needs both in homes and in various public places – the chair was actually originally designed for public use. Linen, leather, and ash wood were chosen as the materials due to their durability. Like other Made by Choice products, Kaski is manufactured at the company's own factory in Halikko, Finland.
Linen, leather, and ash wood were chosen as the materials for the Kaski chair due to their durability.
The shape of the Kaski chair is classic Made by Choice: minimalistic but at the same time playful and recognizable. The frame of the chair is patterned with a lovely grain typical of ash wood, which beautifully emphasizes the simple and natural design. The frame is complemented by a leather cushion and a webbed linen seat inspired by traditional Finnish handicrafts.
“Everything was self-made in the 19th-century countryside, from tools to tableware to furniture. Materials and handicraft skills were highly regarded,” says designer Joanna Laajisto. “The simpler the tool or object, the more important it was to rely on intricately finished joints and details. I wanted to carry along this same principle in the Kaski chair."
See also:
• Kaski chair at Finnish Design Shop >
• All products by Made by Choice >
Edit: Emmi Ratilainen Images: Mikko Ryhänen