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

Seven decades ago, the shell-structure chair ranges—designed for Wilkhahn by architect and lecturer Georg Leowald—were considered examples of forward-thinking furniture design. transforms the archetypal glass-fiber-reinforced polyester into a forward-thinking chair family.

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

A defining feature of Yonda is its armrests, which taper toward the front and curve downward. This gives the seat shell a light and dynamic appearance despite its size. Even the unupholstered version is exceptionally comfortable. With a felt pad, seat cushion, or upholstery on the inside, it’s even more so. And the swivel-mounted models are also available with optional 3D suspension. Six colors, four upholstery types, five base variants, and eco-friendly covers result in a product family that looks just as good in living spaces as it does in the workplace.

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

The development of Yonda focused on a transparent material composition and future recyclability. The one-piece seat shell is made of food-safe, solid-colored BioComposit consisting of 70% recycled polypropylene and 30% wood fibers from regionally 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 groundbreaking design, the brand-new chair collection won the Red Dot Award “Best of the Best” in the Product Design category as well as the iF Design Award. Yonda achieved top marks in all design criteria. The jury was impressed by the innovative BioComposit material, the stylish yet dynamic design of the seat shell, and the variety of models available for a wide range of applications.

Further information

neunzig°design

Red Dot Award

iF design award

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