Image source: Knoll — Olivares Aluminum Chair
© Knoll and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research.
Olivares Aluminum Chair
A stackable die-cast aluminum side chair shaped for indoor and outdoor use
574 × 782 × 544 mm
2012
Official product information
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Description
Overview
Jonathan Olivares designed the Olivares Aluminum Chair for Knoll in 2012. A die-cast aluminum shell and extruded legs form an armless chair for indoor and outdoor settings.
Construction
The shell carries an outdoor powder coat. Integrated tenons transition into the legs, which are bonded with epoxy and stainless-steel fasteners. A broad stacking bumper distributes load when up to six chairs are stacked.
Specifications
- W 22.6 x D 21.4 x H 30.8 in (574 x 544 x 782 mm)
- Seat height 17.5 in; weight under 15 lb
Story
Casting instead of forming
Olivares' team tested hydro-forming and stamping before asking whether the shell could be cast as one piece. The aluminum supplier confirmed the approach, allowing the design to pursue a thin profile while maintaining ergonomic shaping.
Image source: Knoll — Olivares Aluminum Chair · © Knoll and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research. · View official product page ↗ · Image use & copyright policy
Weight as a design measure
During development the team compared the chair repeatedly with the 15 lb Bertoia side chair. Adjustments to the casting brought the finished Olivares chair below that benchmark.
