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38 years after its creation, the postmodern design classic Ekstrem is given a new texture.
Like many industrial designers of his generation, Terje Ekstrøm's work was characterized by a symbiosis of craftsmanship and industry. Before studying interior and furniture design at the Oslo National Academy of the Arts, he trained as a cabinetmaker and upholsterer. Ekstrøm represented a new generation of designers who challenged classic Scandinavian design. Today, he is considered one of Norway's first postmodern designers.
One of the most distinctive objects designed by Ekstrøm is the Ekstrem armchair. It is manufactured and distributed by the Norwegian brand Varier and is currently flickering across many an Instagram feed. One can speculate about the reasons for the revival of this postmodern icon. With its open and playful form, the Ekstrem can be staged well; whether in a Hygge dream or an edgy loft, the lively four-legged friend always attracts attention. Humor rarely works in serious industries like the furniture industry. However, with its physiognomy and appearance, the Ekstrem hits exactly the right note between avant-garde aesthetics and silliness to make it a classic that delights generations.
The classic version of the Ekstrem is remarkably simple in its construction. It consists of a steel frame covered with soft foam and a knitted wool fabric, knitted from just one thread. This gives the fabric the elasticity necessary to adapt to the chair's organic shapes. The resulting open construction allows the Ekstrem to be used in various ways. One can sit on it classically, with feet facing forward. One can also put the legs through the holes in the back, rest the arms on the backrest, and, supported by the construction, read a book. It is particularly suitable as a climbing frame for children or agile pets.
Now, this miniature playground receives a tactile and visual update. Fittingly for the playful and organic forms of the Ekstrem, it receives a new cover, which is no longer made of one piece but 28 separate fabric pieces. Finding the right fit for such an organic object is no easy task and takes almost five hours to manufacture. The fabric chosen was the velvet fabric "Gentle 2" from the Danish manufacturer Kvadrat. "Gentle 2" is currently the only knitted stretch velvet upholstery fabric on the market. It combines a dignified presence with the classic and opulent appearance inherent in velvet. Exactly the right combination to transport a postmodern classic into the 21st century.
More information about the Ekstrem can be found here.
