Frida Lounge Chair by Troy Smith Studio

The Frida Lounge Chair is a striking example of contemporary furniture design that combines bold materials with vibrant artwork. Its primary structural element is steel rebar, coated with a golden metallic flake powder finish that gives it a luxurious and shimmering appearance. The rebar design, typically associated with industrial applications, is elevated into a sculptural form that supports the body with a sense of whimsy and luxury.

The seat and backrest of the chair are upholstered in a custom silk-printed textile, featuring a vivid array of colourful wavy lines in bright hues, creating a visual feast of greens, reds, oranges, purples, and blues. These colours are integrated into a dynamic and flowing pattern that includes an abstract yet recognizable depiction of Frida Kahlo, the iconic Mexican artist, peeking through the fabric as though from behind a curtain of swirling colours. Her image adds a personal, artistic touch that ties into the theme of creative expression.

The chair’s arms and legs are made from the same golden-coated steel rebar. The legs end in rounded ball feet that echo the piece's playful, sculptural nature. The arms are wrapped in black silk, offering comfort and a textural contrast to the vibrant seat fabric and gleaming metal frame.

The Frida Lounge Chair's overall aesthetic blends modern industrial materials, pop art colours, and cultural homage, making it a visually impactful yet functional piece of art. It would be well-suited for a contemporary living space or a collector's gallery, offering a comfortable place to sit and a conversation piece.