Sseuim Chair

Sseuim Chair

Sseuim Chair is an innovative furniture design that exemplifies the harmonious fusion of Korean cultural elements with contemporary functionality, specifically created for use in Korean saunas (jjimjilbang). Created by designer Kihyun Ahn, this versatile piece of furniture, whose name translates to use freely in Korean, represents a sophisticated approach to multi-positional seating that accommodates various resting postures including lying down, sitting, leaning, and sleeping. The design, measuring 2300mm x 850mm x 650mm, draws inspiration from Korean mountain ranges and natural stone formations, incorporating these organic elements into its aesthetic while maintaining ergonomic comfort. Crafted through a combination of traditional Korean woodworking techniques and modern CNC machining, the chair demonstrates a remarkable synthesis of ancient craftsmanship and contemporary manufacturing methods. Its distinctive form provides users with a sense of private space within the communal setting of a Korean sauna, while its thoughtful ergonomic design ensures comfort in multiple positions. The chair's development involved extensive research into sauna users' behaviors and preferences, resulting in a design that effectively addresses the unique requirements of the spa environment. The project, completed in 2021, garnered international recognition when it received the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category, acknowledging its innovative approach to cultural design integration and functional versatility. This achievement highlights the chair's success in combining practical utility with cultural significance, while addressing the specific needs of its intended environment.

furniture design, Korean culture, ergonomic seating, multi-functional chair, spa furniture, traditional craftsmanship

— Adam Dawson

CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Sseuim Chair.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=450904 (Accessed on August 02, 2025)"