Robin Day Forum Armchairs, 1964

Set of two Forum armchairs, designed by Robin Day in 1964 for Hille.

The Forum expresses an overtly luxurious feel with a strong architectural aesthetic. Robin Day followed principles forged by Le Corbusier with an exposed external structure that contained and supported the soft seating within.

Using rosewood panels supported on chromed steel pillars, the construction was clearly defined and continued a theme seen in many of Day’s earlier designs. The rosewood frame was joined through expressive comb-joints and the loose cushions upholstered in leather.

By exposing the frame and finishing this structure in a decorative manner, the design challenged traditional furniture typologies where furniture was fully upholstered. The strict rectilinear frame was generously proportioned offering high levels of comfort.

The Forum utilised expensive materials and production costs were high. Although the design was aimed at both commercial and domestic environments, the price meant it was outside the budget for most homes. As such examples from the original Hille production are rare and few are known to exist.

(see Christies Sale 1152, Lot 1 and 2)

In 2000 Habitat reintroduced the Forum, under the guidance of Tom Dixon and with re-engineered materials and processes.