Plico Chair - Foldable Lounging by Carl Hansen & Son
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I'm almost ashamed to say that I've had this beautiful Carl Hansen & Søn lounge chair folded away in its box for a few months. In my defence, it goes to show how well this foldable lounge chair tucks away that made me forget it was even there. Please forgive me. Because no one should put this baby in the corner, even if it was designed with space saving in mind...
Meet the FK11 Plico by Fabricius & Kastholm
A statement chair for modern living, the FK11 Plico was first presented to the world in 1964 by Danish design duo Preben Fabricius and Jørgen Kastholm. Taking its name from the Latin word 'plico' - to fold, the chair can be folded up when it's not being used. But whereas some flat-pack style furniture fall flat (excuse the pun) the Plico holds on to its elegant, Nordic aesthetic. Not surprising that Carl Hansen & Søn won a BoBedre award last year with it when it became the newest addition to their collection of Danish design classics.
Can we talk about that utterly gorgeous quilted linen canvas seat against that oak frame?
A foldable statement chair with Nordic charm - Carl Hansen & Søn's award-winning Plico, designed as a space-saving lounge chair.
Each detail reveals itself to you as you unfold it. And I found something new with every shot I took. From the brass hinged front leg secured with brass bolts under the seat, the gentle curve in the oak legs where they touch the floor, to the stitched saddle leather arm rests. It's just an exquisite piece of design.
It's rare to find this level of versatility in a lounge chair. Or at least, I think it is. Firstly, it's a testament to Fabricius & Kastholm's foresight to design a chair that doesn't have to be there all the time. You know, a lounge chair is a pretty hefty commitment up there with your sofa. And when the way we use our homes changes as we grow, having the flexibility to just fold this one away takes away some of that weight.
Secondly - I love to see the mechanism out on show. To see how the oak frame pivots inside visible brass fittings when you tilt the adjustable rest back into position. It looks like it belongs here in my living room and I honestly wish it was staying. This is a sit back with a good book kinda chair - supportive but totally loungable. In other words, style doesn't trump the function here, my friends.
If you loved the Plico chair but want to check out another Carl Hansen & Søn design classic, might I point you in the direction of the CH07 Shell Chair?
Prices start from £1,900. Check your local stockist for more information.
Product photography & styling © Tiffany Grant-Riley.