GRADO 2024FW NEW: EAVE LOUNGE CHAIR Revives Her Royal HUI Ma

AI ORIGINAL: TYPICAL HUI-STYLE ARCHITECTURE INCLUDING B&W COATING, OVERWASHED EXTERIOR, RUSTY CRUST, HORSE-HEAD PATTERN FEATURING THE TIP OF THE EDGE

Cultural Keys introduces the Head Horse Wall as an integral architectural feature of the Huizhou region in China, particularly in the modern-day Huangshan and Xuancheng cities in ANHUI (安徽), and Wuyuan County in Jiangxi. The distinctive stepped roof, aka. HORSE HEAD WALL (马头墙) in Chinese, serves a crucial function in preventing the spread of fires. The walls are higher than the roofs and act as a barrier between adjacent houses, resembling horse heads, hence their name. This feature not only has a practical purpose but also carries positive cultural associations, symbolizing power and wealth as horses are considered auspicious animals in Chinese culture. Furthermore, the design and style of these walls can vary, with different decorative elements denoting the status and aspirations of the house owner. Additionally, larger houses may have more steps, signaling greater wealth and honor.

Secondly, the crenelated walls also blocked out cold drafts. In addition, the roofs of the buildings were intentionally constructed to incline towards the inner courtyard. This design symbolized wealth, as it allowed rainwater to trickle into the inner courtyard, representing the flow of wealth into the family. The collected rainwater in a large jar at the center of the courtyard was also practical, as it could be used in the event of a fire. This practical and symbolic use of the "horse-head wall" showcases the ingenuity and strategic thinking of the Hui merchant families.

The unique architectural form of the multi-layered horse-head wall in HUI(徽) architecture is renowned for its graceful curves and distinct layered effect. In our design process, GRADO has condensed and refined the aesthetic element of the folding of the horse-head wall to the armrest folding of the chair, creating a unique upholstery design. The folding of the armrest not only visually presents a sense of depth but also enhances comfort. The seamless curves at the junction of the chair back and seat cushion echo the turning points of the horse-head wall. The entire design emphasizes meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every curve and angle of the chair appears naturally smooth, while also incorporating modern minimalist style, combining aesthetics with practicality. The Eave Lounge Chair is not only a piece of furniture but also an artistic creation that embodies traditional and modern design concepts, imparting a unique cultural ambiance to the space.