This Lounge Chair is Perfect For Rainy Days

The shaggy-chic Ame chair from Studio Paolo Ferrari and textile artist Hiroko Takeda

“Ame” – Japanese for “rain” – is a fitting moniker for this lounge chair. Look how the fibres cascade down its back and elegantly pool on the floor. The eccentricity is purposeful.

A collaborative result, the lounge chair was designed by Toronto furniture and interior designer Paolo Ferrari and New York-based Japanese textile artist Hiroko Takeda. “There is something compelling about creating a piece where the work of two studios is evident, both separately and intertwined,” says Ferrari. On top of that, this piece challenges preconceived notions of utility as the sole driver of “good design.”

Despite Ame’s unusual shape, comfort and ergonomics were key. Its second layer, behind the backrest, envelops the seat and lumbar support, creating arm rests. Made in Toronto, the Ame lounge chair’s solid wood frame is wrapped with soft but hardy wool bouclé. And then comes the “rain.”

“We explored the connection between furnishings and garment-making,” says Ferrari. “It was an opportunity for us to envision furniture beyond ergonomics and form, and to explore materiality in a more expressive way.” Japan’s “mino,” a traditional raincoat made from straw, inspired the fibrous draping along the back. “I handweave the bouclé fabric with cotton tape yarn, linen, hemp, silk and wool,” says Takeda. “Each chair is unique.” Ame is a work of art that just so happens to tick all the boxes of “good design.” STUDIOPAOLOFERRARI.COM

Available at South Hill Home; call for pricing.