Whether gouging polystyrene, lathing felt or casting pewter from sand moulds, Max Lamb creates visually arresting designs that have materials and process at their core. But unlike many of his previous designs in which the processes have involved reduction, removal, extraction or excavation, the Flat Iron Chair is a celebration of construction and of augmentation.

The building analogy goes beyond the physical process to the inspiration behind the project – Lamb’s fascination with the i-beam, the steel girders traditionally used in the construction and architecture industries.

Lamb worked through a detailed series of models, material trials and computer visualisations until his original i-beam literally grew into the highly sculptural chair. The stunning results mark a significant development for Lamb, one of the four winners of Design Miami/Basel’s 2008 Designers of the Future award.

With thanks to Isamu Noguchi.