The Ru Chair represents a significant achievement in contemporary Scandinavian furniture design
Created by American-born, Stockholm-based industrial designer for Danish furniture company HAY. Originally designed in 2008 and first presented at NC Möbler, Stockholm Furniture Fair, this innovative seating solution gained international recognition when showcased at Maison et Objet 2010 and Stockholm Furniture Fair 2010.
Shane Schneck drew inspiration from collective memories of institutional seating found in schools, lunch rooms, and auditoriums, transforming these references into a sophisticated hybrid that balances nostalgia with cutting-edge functionality. The Ru Chair’s distinctive design eliminates conventional front legs, creating a clean cantilever structure that allows for efficient stacking on tables to facilitate cleaning in commercial environments.
The chair’s structural integrity comes from its innovative cross-laminated wooden construction, where multiple layers are bonded to create exceptional strength in the seat area. This advanced lamination technique enables the cantilever design while maintaining durability and comfort for extended use.
Recognition came swiftly for this groundbreaking design. In 2011, the Ru Chair received the prestigious Guldstolen award in the product category. The jury praised its achievement, stating that “with its neat and discreet profile, Ru Chair is both innovative and upliftingly idiosyncratic.”
The chair exemplifies HAY’s commitment to accessible design excellence, combining Shane Schneck’s thoughtful approach to industrial design with Danish manufacturing precision. Its stackable functionality and robust construction make it equally suitable for residential dining spaces and high-traffic commercial environments.
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