Ruby Pike, Kangaroo Cirqlo (STUDENT 2025)

Student:

Tertiary

Name of school or tertiary institution, name of woodworking teacher (if you have one), and name of photographer:

TAFE NSW - Lidcombe campus; Teachers: Georgina Donovan & Amber Herlihy Went; Photos: Amber Herlihy Went

Country

Australia

This chair design draws inspiration from the timeless elegance of retro and mid-century modern furniture, reimagining classic forms through a contemporary lens. Characterised by its curvature and artful geometry, the piece celebrates the playful optimism of 1960s and '70s design while embracing a refined, modern sensibility. The timber used for the construction is a mixture of recycled Queensland and New Zealand Kuari Pine, from a range of old furniture pieces. The piece aims to tell the story of bringing old material and turning it into something that can be celebrated and used again. This is why I designed a chair with playful and lively themes. The use of organic shapes and softened edges enhances both visual interest and comfort, creating a harmonious balance between form and function. Upholstered in a rich, retro-inspired deep blue fabric, the seat provides a bold yet sophisticated contrast to the warm, light yellow-orange timber frame. It's simple geometry and thoughtful angles allow the natural grain and tone of the timber to take centre stage, while the upholstery adds depth and vibrancy, enhancing the chair’s overall visual impact. The design is aimed to reflect a commitment to craftsmanship, nostalgia, and the enduring appeal of design that doesn’t take itself too seriously

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.