Sebastian Jansson is fascinated by the symbolic dimension that shapes acquire in our environment. Currently based in Paris, he has been working on a concept that reflects his perception of the role of shapes and materials as symbols in their own right.

Infinity chair

The structure of his Infinity chair was determined by close analysis and observation of natural postures and sit-to-stand movements, and his choice of shapes and materials infuses it with a strong symbolic charge. In his designs, style is never the starting point: It is a consequence of the infinite visual simplicity he achieves through total unity between symbolism, structure, materials and the human beings he had in mind when carrying out his initial research. Hence, the natural fluidity of this Infinity chair.

—His sources of inspiration? The desire to create a symbol of “continuity and endlessness, in itself a strong reference” and a sense of transparency. To Jansson, “transparency is about honesty” and this symbolic aspect “permeates through the object”. Though made of stainless steel, the cantilever structure of the legs flows naturally into the actual seat (for which he used 6mm polycarbonate folded by thermoforming) and this continuity in turn provides flexibility designed to adjust to the user’s various natural postures. Once again, a highly personal and playful approach to a complex brief. A rigid structure provides support and comfort. Jansson compares it to “an ice cube melting before our eyes” but the result is far from cold.

Mec Stool

This stool is the result of research for a project developed at an International Summer Workshop held at the Domaine de Boisbuchet in collaboration with the Vitra Design Museum. The workshop was conducted by Stephen Burks, one of the leading lights of American design. The brief? To provide support based on various frequently adopted natural postures and objectify the concept as a mechanical extension of the human body. The Mec stool takes into account sit-to-stand movement and postural variations leading the body to lose balance at a certain point. The outcome? A highly personal though simple and rigid plywood structure, with a playful look.

Habitus Bar stool

This is a bar stool inspired by the coffee leaf, constructed form geometric shapes. With its sculptural appearance, Habitus gives character to a space and environment, inviting the eye to glance over its anthropomorphic structure. By studying the formation of coffee leafs, Jansson was able to re-create the stool through this intricate arrangement of geometric forms, whilst maintaining its aesthetic qualities and comfort.

—The stool is made from is laser cut 1mm steel, folded and welded. Habitus has been developed and manufactured during Jansson’s time in Milan in 2008-09. It was originally designed to feature in café and coffee shop of Kaffa Roastery based in Helsinki, but is now represented internationally. Jansson has also created the brand identity and communication for this boutique coffee roaster