Maarten Van Severen’s chair is an elegant essay in form and function. The minimal, stacking design (up to 10 chairs high) combines a strong steel and aluminum frame with a resilient polyurethane foam seat and back that yields to the sitter’s body. It also flexes comfortably thanks to springs embedded in the backrest. The striking simplicity of Van Severen’s design has earned it a place in MoMA’s collection. It’s ideal as comfortable seating for reception areas and meeting rooms. Available in seven colors with smooth silver bases. Made in Germany by Vitra, a manufacturer of iconic modern furnishings that’s widely represented in the Museum’s collection.

The son of an abstract painter, Maarten Van Severen studied architecture in Ghent, Belgium. He began designing furniture in 1986, pursuing perfection in form and fabrication from his Ghent workshop. He works in a wide variety of materials, from aluminum to bakelite, exploring the strengths and limitations of each. He frequently collaborates with Rem Koolhaas as a furniture and interior designer for residential commissions. Six examples of Van Severen’s chair designs are included in MoMA’s collection.