Luchino Chair: Where Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Simplicity

The classic folding chair reimagined from a modern perspective—that’s the concept behind the Luchino chair from the Italian design house Flexform, renowned for its innovative contemporary forms. Designed by Italian architect Antonio Citterio, this ingenious chair masterfully blends form, functionality, and Italian craftsmanship into a piece that is deceptively simple yet impeccably stylish.

“Luchino provides a contemporary interpretation of a furniture archetype, combining versatility with an informal aesthetic,” said Citterio. Drawing inspiration from the practicality of the director’s chair, it retains its lightweight, portable nature while enhancing the design with premium materials and innovative construction techniques.

“Lightweight and practical, the folding chair has long been the subject of research and innovation,” Citterio notes, adding that he has always been fascinated by the simplicity of early post-war folding chairs. His collaboration with Flexform aims to honor this legacy with a contemporary interpretation of a piece crafted from traditional turned wood, metal alloy joints, and cowhide leather.

The chair’s creation starts with solid wood, which is hand-turned and meticulously finished. These wooden components are bonded using water-based, non-toxic glues, ensuring an environmentally friendly process. Once the wooden frame is prepared, it proceeds to the assembly stage, where custom-made metal brackets are introduced. These metal parts are essential to the chair’s folding mechanism, regulating the rotation and height of the seat, allowing the chair to be both sturdy and effortlessly collapsible.

The folding system is reinforced by die-cast aluminum joints, meticulously fitted to ensure a seamless connection between the sled bases and center crosspieces. The intricate design of these joints, combined with custom-turned fasteners, provides structural integrity while preserving the chair’s sleek, minimalist profile.

The seat and backrest are crafted from cowhide, a hallmark of Flexform. Cut from custom templates, the cowhide is sewn and finished to perfection before being meticulously attached to the wooden frame. The backrest slides onto the wooden uprights, while the seat is securely fastened to ensure both comfort and a snug fit.

Each Luchino chair undergoes rigorous testing to ensure the flawless operation of its folding mechanism and overall durability. The result is a blend of practicality and timeless simplicity—a modern classic versatile enough to complement any interior.