Rope Chair
Blending the past and present
Rope Chair features in the Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection, a vibrant new art space in Paris.
An embodiment of thoughtful contrasts, the Rope Chair designed by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec makes a public debut in the Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection, a newly opened museum in Paris by French art collector François Pinault that is situated in the city’s former commodities exchange. First constructed in the 18th century, the historic building was recently restored and transformed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando into a cultural venue that offers a glimpse into Pinault’s extensive contemporary art collection. For the conception and selection of the interior furnishings, Pinault turned to the Paris-based Bouroullec brothers, who previously developed the Kaari Collection and Rivi pattern for Artek.
Spread out in the passageway and transitional areas of the museum’s interiors, as though along the paths of a garden, the Rope Chair creates a welcoming atmosphere. With its sleek lines and elegantly minimal profile, the chair also poetically complements the remarkable 9-meter-high and 30-meter-round concrete cylinder that Ando has added into the heart of the building. The cylinder, which stages light and shadow plays depending on the position of the sun, was designed to spark contemplation and introspection among visitors. The new Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collectionholds a dialogue of contrasts between the past and the present, between heritage and contemporary creation.
Meanwhile, the Rope Chair proposes a conversation between rigidity and adaptability. The artful and pragmatic piece features a steadfast quality intending to support and provide structure while simultaneously inviting sitters to be flexible and creative in their physical posture. This seems particularly apt in a space that encourages open encounters with artworks and artists. Unexpectedly comfortable to lean on, the chair is a good example of how technical expertise and exquisite artistry can beautifully coalesce.
Photo 1: Courtesy Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection & Studio Bouroullec, © Tadao Ando Architect & Associates, Niney et Marca Architectes, Agence Pierre-Antoine Gatier, Studio Bouroullec. Photo 2: Courtesy Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection, © Studio Bouroullec. Photo 3: Courtesy Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection, Photo: Maxime Tétard, Studio Les Graphiquants, © Tadao Ando Architect & Associates, Niney et Marca Architectes, Agence Pierre-Antoine Gatier. Photo 4 and 5: Courtesy Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection, Photo: Marc Domage © Tadao Ando Architect & Associates, Niney et Marca Architectes, Agence Pierre-Antoine Gatier, Studio Bouroullec. Photo 6: Courtesy Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection, Photo: Timelapse Go.