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The TUBA Chair Is a Tubular Symphony of Aluminum

Spanish brand Gandia Blasco Group’s Diabla has added a new chair to its modern outdoor offerings. During Milan Design Week 2023 at Salone del Mobile, they introduced TUBA, a lightweight aluminum stacking chair designed by London-based designer Samuel Wilkinson. The first collaboration between the two, TUBA’s name alludes to its 19 tubular elements, a repetitive arrangement made of infinitely recyclable aluminum.

“In essential chairs like TUBA, I like to find uniqueness through aesthetics, materials, or processes. TUBA’s design conforms to this methodology, and manages to be legible from a single material, that of the repetitive components that build its structure,” said Wilkinson.

two light-skinned woman with long dark hair wearing grey-blue one-shoulder swimsuits and matching swimming caps sit opposite one another in red outdoor chairs

TUBA’s construction includes two support tubes, 15 oversized curved cross bars, and two leg tubes, all with rounded ends. For an ultra clean aesthetic, the design shied away from visible welds for the most part, with only those on the leg junctions apparent. Meant to help convey calmness and relaxation, the multiple curves of the chair allude to its comfort.

modern red outdoor chair on white background

The mono-material chair features a textured, powder-coated aluminum that’s available in Diabla’s seven color spectrum. It not only adds strength and durability in the face of the elements and wear and tear, but aids in keeping TUBA light and easy to store. If you’re searching to furnish a small terrace or large commercial project, this chair is the perfect choice.

modern red outdoor chair on white background

modern red outdoor chair on white background

modern red outdoor chair on white background

detail of modern red outdoor chair on white background

sketch of modern red outdoor chair on white background

sketch of modern red outdoor chair on white background

modern white outdoor chair prototype in a warehouse

modern white outdoor chair prototype in a warehouse

modern white outdoor chair prototype in a warehouse

serene scene with a body of water in front of a light colored, angular building surrounded by red and white outdoor furniture

To learn more about TUBA, visit diablaoutdoor.com.

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.