yves behar / fuseproject: sayl chairs for herman miller

‘sayl chairs’ by yves béhar in collaboration with herman miller

industrial designer and fuseproject founder yves béhar has just sent us images of the developing process of ‘sayl chair’, created in collaboration with american manufacturing company herman miller. it is the first frameless suspension back chair that incorporates 3D intelligence in its comfort, movement and support. influenced by local suspension bridges found in san francisco, the chair is the outcome of nearly 2.5 years of research for a seating object that provides a maximum sense of freedom with a design that utilizes the least materials. available in a number of different colours and finishes, the design aims to meet the needs of needs of both residential and large-scale commercial spaces.

back support testing phase

detail

different degrees of tension are infused directly into the injection-molded back, providing sacral, lumbar and spine support. the integrated 3D intelligence lets the chair adapt to the user’s shape and movements, giving proper ergonomic support and freedom. aesthetically, the suspension back is a natural and organic arc, giving the chair an elegant form.

suspension back support testing phase

detail

yves behar and bret recor of fuseproject work with an early suspension back prototype

yves behar works with the team to evaluate an early prototype

continuing work on prototypes

testing out the prototypes

suspension back prototypes used to quickly evaluate forms, material, approach, comfort and ergonomics

inspecting the goods: the first suspension backs come out of the mold

closer look at the injection tool

production test: the first elastomer suspension back parts are run on the line.

behar picks colours for seat cushion and more possible finishes

the ‘sayl chair’ is available as both work and side chairs. the work chairs feature a 5-star base and upholstered seat with either a suspension or upholstered back. side chairs come in either a 4-leg or cantilever base option, and upholstered seat with your choice of suspension, upholstered, or plastic backs.

the line also has a very small carbon footprint with 93% of its material being recyclable.

yves béhar in ‘sayl chair’; four legged side chair in the background