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Thomas Pedersen and Bernhardt Design Debut the Pedersen Lounge Chair

01.11.19 | By
Thomas Pedersen and Bernhardt Design Debut the Pedersen Lounge Chair

Acclaimed Danish furniture designer Thomas Pedersen leans towards typical Danish characteristics with an emphasis on simplicity, and he recently made his American debut with the Pederson lounge chair created for Bernhardt Design. It’s the first collaboration between the two and was inspired by seashells found on the natural coastline of Denmark, while incorporating Pedersen’s 3D veneer process that searches out the sweet spot of comfort, durability, and character in the design.

Known for bringing together experimental ideas and exceptional ergonomics to develop the best possible solutions, Pedersen first gained international recognition in 2008 with his Stingray chair, which has since become a design museum mainstay the world over. For many years he’s been working on simplifying the 3D veneer while maintaining its character, and the journey eventually turned into the Pedersen lounge, a striking yet comfortable three-legged chair that also stands as sculptural object.

Pedersen shares, “The first lines and ideas for the chair date back a decade and originate from what I learned in developing the Stingray. The first prototypes for the Pedersen lounge actually used the Stingray shell. This long process was a matter of reduction and constantly striving for the perfect simple shape and beautiful lines.”

Jerry Helling, President of Bernhardt Design adds, “The entire process was about creating another icon that integrates well with diverse design languages and works harmoniously in the type of spaces people are creating today. The chair is definitely iconic and has a youthful appearance, but it blends beautifully with contemporary, transitional and residential furniture. The first time I saw a rendering of the chair I wanted it – even if it were uncomfortable and expensive. It was a pleasant surprise and a great relief to discover this graceful sculpture was amazingly comfortable and affordable.”

The Pedersen lounge chair is available in oak or walnut, the wood finishes ranging from clear oak and natural walnut to matte ebony and a rainbow of colors in between. There are also four metal base options that include copper chrome, polished chrome, black chrome, and matte black.

Kelly Beall is Director of Branded Content at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based writer and designer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, from Fashion Plates to MoMA and far beyond. When not searching out the visual arts, she's likely sharing her favorite finds with others. Kelly can also be found tracking down new music, teaching herself to play the ukulele, or on the couch with her three pets – Bebe, Rainey, and Remy. Find her @designcrush on social.