From Classic to Cutting-Edge: The Evolution of Wilkhahn's Sustainable Shell-Structure Chair Yonda

Seven decades ago, the shell-structure chair ranges, created by architect and lecturer Georg Leowald for Wilkhahn, were considered examples of pioneering furniture design. The new Yonda range transforms the archetypal fiberglass-reinforced polyester into a pioneering chair family that’s very planet friendly.

Here are two chairs in a warm orange hue. The chairs combine clean lines with a sturdy four-star metal base. Against the rough concrete wall, an intriguing contrast emerges between modern design and the industrial setting. — The original model by Georg Leowald, now reinterpreted for the future in the shape of Yonda. © Florian Harrlandt, Kommunalka Leipzig

The modern room features two black Yonda chairs with four-legged steel frames. The organically shaped seats complement the simple table design, creating an elegant, cozy atmosphere. The combination of metal, ceramic, and natural materials exudes a sense of calm and quality. — © Wilkhahn

Contemporary design and superior comfort

Characteristic of Yonda are its armrests that taper and curve downward at the front. As a result, despite its size, the seat shell looks lightweight and dynamic. Even the version without upholstery is exceptionally comfortable. With a felt pad, seat cushioning or padding on the inside, it’s even more so. And the swivel-mounted models also have optional 3D suspension. Six colors, four upholstery types, five base frame variants, and eco-friendly covers add up to four-leg chairs that wouldn’t look out of place in homes all the way to chairs to sit on in workplace settings.

The meeting room is open, flooded with natural light, and features warm wooden accents. Surrounding the table are several Yonda chairs with wooden frames and red seat shells. — Seeking more of a home-like appeal? Then the Yonda four-leg chair with its solid wood legs in oak with a natural, oiled finish, is the number one choice. © Wilkhahn

The bright library or study room is furnished with several Yonda chairs, shown here in warm shades of red and gray. The chairs blend seamlessly into the modern work environment and offer freedom of movement as well as exceptional comfort. The color-coordinated furnishings create an inspiring atmosphere for learning and working. — With an aluminum five-star base on casters, Yonda becomes a mobile chair to work on in home offices, co-working and project spaces. © Wilkhahn

Consistently sustainable

Yonda’s design, materials and surface finishes make it perfect for a circular economy. At the development phase, the designers chose materials that could be recycled or were renewable, and eco-friendly production processes. The unitary seat shell is made of food-safe, through-dyed, recyclable biocomposite, 70% of which consists of recycled polypropylene and 30% of locally sourced waste wood.

The photo shows a Yonda chair in a warm sand color, complemented by a softly padded seat cushion. The close-up highlights the high-quality fabric texture and the ergonomically shaped seat shell. The delicate four-star base underscores the chair’s light, modern design. — Yonda with a four-star base, tone-on-tone with the seat shell, looks sophisticated and dynamic. If required, the seat cushioning also comes with a distinctive Y-shaped depression as a reference to the first letter of the range’s name. © Wilkhahn

Double award-winner Yonda is beyond furniture

Thanks to its pioneering design, the brand-new chair range won the Red Dot Award’s Best of the Best in the product design category and the IF design award. Yonda scored top marks on all design criteria. The panel of judges was impressed by its sustainable biocomposite material, the stylish but dynamic design of the seat shell and the range of models for all sorts of settings.

Further information

neunzig°design

Red Dot Award

iF design award

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