Image source: Poltrona Frau — Ham Armchair
© Poltrona Frau and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research.
Ham Armchair
An auditorium armchair created by Herzog & de Meuron for Hamburg's Elbphilharmonie.
Official product information
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Description
Overview
The Ham armchair was created by Herzog & de Meuron for the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg. Poltrona Frau lists it as a contract product for public venues, with an automatic tip-up seat.
Image source: Poltrona Frau — Ham Armchair · © Poltrona Frau and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research. · View official product page ↗ · Image use & copyright policy
Construction
A rigid polyurethane structure is padded with fire-resistant, non-deforming polyurethane and sprung with elastic belts. The visible shell uses curved wood in different essences or veneers. Noise-damping nylon joints operate the tip-up seat.
Installation and cover
Metal bases receive scratchproof, shock-resistant epoxy powder paint. Upholstery is offered in Pelle Frau® leather, fabric or velvet.
Story
Designed for a concert hall
Poltrona Frau states that Herzog & de Meuron created Ham for the Elbphilharmonie of Hamburg. The project origin explains the contract specification: rows are fixed to metal bases and the seat folds automatically.
Public-space construction
The page combines a rigid moulded body with resilient padding, elastic suspension and a curved visible shell. Noise-damping joints and resistant powder-coated bases address repeated movement and installation in a venue.
