Production Visits - Mat Chair

An Innovative Production Process

The production of Mat Chair follows a carefully engineered process to ensure durability and recyclability. The shells are crafted using a compression molding technique, where hemp fibers or a blend of hemp and eelgrass are bonded with a fully recyclable binder. This method creates a strong yet lightweight shell that maintains the natural tactility of the materials. The shells are then cut to size, hand-sanded for smoothness, and finished with a VOC-free linseed oil for durability.

Harnessing the Power of Hemp and Eelgrass

Mat Chair is available in two variations: one made from pure hemp fibers, offering a lighter tone, and another incorporating eelgrass, which provides a darker, natural hue. Both materials are sourced responsibly—hemp from European farms and eelgrass collected along the Danish coastline. These natural materials not only reduce material waste but also add a unique texture and aesthetic to the final design.

Designed for Circularity

Mat Chair is built with a focus on longevity and recyclability. The shells and steel bases are designed for disassembly, allowing components to be separated and recycled at the end of their lifespan. Scraps from the production process are repurposed into new chair shells, ensuring minimal waste and a closed-loop production cycle. The result is a chair that can be continuously reintroduced into new manufacturing processes, reinforcing its long-term usability.

The Challenges and Rewards of Material Innovation

Creating a 3D shell chair using natural fibers required overcoming numerous challenges, particularly in securing high-quality hemp and eelgrass fibers that met strict durability and aesthetic requirements. Unlike traditional materials, these fibers exhibit natural variations, making each Mat Chair slightly unique in tone and texture. Despite these hurdles, the investment in material innovation has resulted in a groundbreaking design that sets new standards for responsible furniture production.

A Step Toward a More Thoughtful Future
With Mat Chair, Normann Copenhagen embraces the future of furniture production by combining timeless design with responsible material choices. By continually refining production techniques and fostering partnerships that prioritize circularity, we aim to push the boundaries of innovation and contribute to a more resource-conscious industry.

Discover the Mat Chair Collection below