404 Chair

This Thonet 404 Chair was designed by Stefan Diez for the manufacturer Thonet.

In his native Germany, Diez is becoming recognised as a leading designer of everything from furniture to tableware. A love of craftsmanship and the physical quality of materials - he began his career as a cabinet maker - means that there's a strong link between him and the Thonet traditions; here, Diez has developed the bentwood furniture style that the company pioneered, giving it a distinctly modern aesthetic whilst maintaining the lightness or pure enjoyment of shape.

A complicated design process sees the chair legs heat-treated and formed so they provide a consistency of line with the seat and back, as well as a comfortable, balanced and ergonomic experience. The choice of the material beechwood is a direct link to the classic designs of the past. It all makes for a supremely versatile piece of furniture. Try the Thonet 404 Chair at the dining table - perhaps with a contrasting cushion - in a stylish and contemporary room setting. Its durability and easy-to-like style would also make it a practical kitchen chair, or a useful addition to a studio or work space.