Rich with heritage and full of character, the Artek Crinolette Armchair was first introduced in 1962, and neatly straddles the line between classical and modernity. With its deep-formed back, and low profile, the Crinolette makes for a welcoming platform for relaxing and socialising, and is at home in a multitude of diverse environments. Built from solid birch by master crafts-workers in Finland, and available in a choice of black or white finishes, the Crinolette is a piece which truly stands the test of time.
Finnish designer Ilmari Tapiovaara was one of the greatest interior architects and designers of his era. With the mind of an explorer and soul of a craftsman, Tapiovaara was always looking for ways to improve everyday objects. He embraced the principle of social equality and became a leading figure in the years after World War Two, when design was no longer seen as a luxury for the few.
A main characteristic of Tapiovaara's work was that he explored its possibilities through multiplicity - he created many versions of each of his designs and reissued them in different shapes.
Tapiovaara's most iconic work is his Domus Chair, a stackable plywood chair which he designed for Domus Academica, a new student housing facility in Helsinki.