German-based Wilkhahn displayed several examples of their Chassis chairs designed by Stefan Diez which incorporates sheet metal stamping similarly used in the manufacturing of cars. Diez was inspired by the automotive manufacturing process which informed both the look, function and production of the Chassis.

The metal structure of the chair is formed in a 300 ton press. Excess steel from the stampings are used in the joint sections of the chair meaning there is virtually no waste created in the making of the chair’s structure. The manufacturing process allowed Diez to create some fairly complex forms within the metal base. A formed lip at the top of the backrest serves as a handle to allow easier moving of the chair.

The Chassis chair has been picking up numerous design awards recently including a 2011 Best of the Best Reddot Design Award. In the Seating category of the 2011 ICFF Editors Awards, the Chassis was named best of show.