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Despite the Beetle’s transition to a new material, GamFratesi’s
original inspiration – and the design’s namesake – is still
evident in the veneer edition’s form, perhaps even more so.
The sinuous seat and back are visual echoes of the segmented
parts of a beetle’s body; the hard outer shell mirrors the
insect’s protective exoskeleton; and the upholstered seat
and backrest reference the soft body inside. The addition of
wood veneer only emphasizes the design’s connection to the
natural world and the forms of nature that inspired it.
The Beetle involves a high degree of skill to produce, but
with the veneer edition, GamFratesi has introduced an even
greater level of craft. The meeting point of the two shells, as
well as the junction between the wood and the upholstery,
underline the craftsmanship that has gone into the chair, as
well as emphasizing its precise detailing and graceful form.
The thickness of the shell varies: wider at the points of
connection, to allow for greater strength, but thinner at the
edges to preserve the iconic silhouette.
Light and dark wood veneers are available in oak and
American walnut. Together with the wide range of upholstery
options, this means the chair can be matched with interiors
of any style or color palette, and can be deployed equally
effectively in the home or in hospitality settings, where it
makes a striking and peerlessly comfortable seat.
Left: Beetle Dining Chair in 3D Walnut Veneer, upholstered in GUBI Soft Leather Army
Right: Beetle Dining Chair in 3D Oak Veneer, upholstered in Dedar Karakorum 001
