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ROBIN DAY - THE POLYPROP CHAIR - 1963
 
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Probably one of the most used chairs in the world is Robin Day’s Polyprop Chair of 1963, which continues to be manufactured to this day. Although the design has slowly evolved over the years, it is very popular as a stackable chair in schools, universities, canteens and conference venues. A number of variations on the original design now exist.

In the 1960s, it was regarded as a revolutionary design, with a one piece seat and backrest, manufactured through injection moulding. Although, apparently simple in design, in reality it required extensive research into ergonomics, before the design was finalised and the manufacturing process could begin.

High impact resistant polypropylene, is used for the seat and tubular steel for the frame. This means that the chair is cheap and can be mass produced. Over 30 million have now been manufactured.

 
 
 
Polyprop Chair, 1963
 
RECENT VARIATIONS IN POLYPROP DESIGN
 
 
One of the main features of the chair is that it can be stacked, up to 12 chairs in height. Even at this height, the stacks can be moved with care, especially if on a smooth surface, as found in halls and canteens. The stacks are stable and very unlikely to topple over.
 
 
 
 

The polyprop chair is ergonomically designed to suit most people. Although today the chair is supplied in different sizes, the reality is that it is most popular in one ‘adult’ size. It is comfortable as a classroom / canteen / hall chair.

The seat and back are designed to support the user and the polypropylene is a ‘flexible’ material, that absorbs and reacts to the minor movement of the user. Further to this, the chair is very light, as it is based on a lightweight steel tube frame, ensuring that it is easy to carry.

 
 
 
 
Modern Polyprop Chairs are available in a range of colours. Some are shown below. This is achieved by adding the selected pigment to the injection moulding process.
 
 
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