Cantilevered Design Balances Cultural Roots in this One-Legged Chair | Pere Chair

FDT Bureau

Nobody would a chair that has only one leg. It is a given that chairs are supposed to be stable and supportive, not a test of balance. But now and then, a design comes along that completely upends these expectations, challenging our perception of form, function and trust in everyday objects. The Pere Chair, designed by Brazilian designer Dimitrih Correa, is one such creation. Know more about his optical and conceptual puzzle that’s as thought-provoking as it is functional on FURNITURE DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY (FDT).

At first glance, the Pere Chair might seem unstable, as if it might tip over the moment someone tries to sit on it. Yet its structural integrity lies not in defying physics but in cleverly applying it. The chair uses a cantilever system, the same principle employed in the construction of bridges, balconies and even modern skyscrapers. While the design appears to rest on a single wide leg at the front, the chair’s weight distribution and support system ensure that it remains perfectly stable when in use. In fact, the chair even doubles as a modular piece, with a removable backrest that allows it to convert into a stool.

What elevates the Pere Chair from clever design to storytelling object is its cultural and material inspiration. The piece draws from Brazilian folklore, specifically the character of Saci Perere, a one-legged trickster figure known for causing playful chaos. Much like the mythical Saci, the chair teases the viewer into questioning its intentions—is it safe to sit on, or is it a prank? This sense of curiosity is what gives the Pere Chair its charm.

The materials chosen for the chair also reflect a strong connection to Brazilian heritage. Crafted from Peroba de Campos, a native Brazilian hardwood celebrated for its strength and natural beauty, the chair is not only visually stunning but also deeply sustainable. Importantly, no new trees were felled in the making of this piece. Instead, reclaimed and recycled wood that carries with it the visible marks of previous lives was used. Scratches, knots, holes and other imperfections are not hidden but rather highlighted, becoming part of the chair’s character.

Aesthetically, the chair is inviting in its warmth. The reddish-brown tones of the Peroba wood exude richness, while the woven rattan seat and backrest lend a handmade quality that softens the overall appearance. The combination of rustic textures and contemporary form creates a unique visual language. The Pere Chair isn’t just a seat; it’s a conversation starter, a visual paradox and a celebration of storytelling through design. It challenges assumptions, sparks curiosity and promotes sustainable craftsmanship, all while adding an element of surprise and playfulness to the space it inhabits.

Image credit: Dimitrih Correa