Chalit Kongsuwan (Num), Tasmania

Rocking Lounge Chair and Daybed

Materials
Tasmanian blackwood (solid and veneer), plywood, bamboo and mat woven from Thai hyacinth.

Concept
These pieces aim to represent the coexistence of customary and modern culture by referencing a kinetic style of sitting and relaxing as well as using low value under-utilised, but sustainable materials for regional production.
In order to incorporate the availability of indigenous resources, cross-cultural habits and industrial evolutions, endemic heritages such as Tasmanian horizontal scrub and Thai hyacinth are exploited and represented as the utilitarian feature of objects. These native plants are under-utilised materials.
Horizontal scrub (Anodopetalum biglandulosum) is only found in Tasmania. Due to having a small trunk about up to 200mm wide and the chaotic thickets of this species, its prominent potential has been overshadowed by other local species. This is similar to Thai hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipe)’ which is native to Indonesia. This weed was introduced to Thailand during the reign of King Rama V (1868-1910). As a result of its rapid growth in tropical rivers and canals, this water plant widely caused the obstruction of water transportation routes.
The woven mat is rolled to generate an adjustable bolster, back or arm rest and cushion. These three versatile functions are laid on a veneered plywood base supported by a narrow width of solid blackwood to provide an appropriate strength, height and movement for both Eastern and Western usability.
Wooden parts can be easily dismantled and assembled by using industrial fittings. The mat roll is fixed in place with leather ropes and wooden beads, made of horizontal scrub. All wooden components were finished by handed oil to avoid the drawbacks of using chemical substances particularly CFCs (chlorofluorocarbon).

Photos: John Farrow