This thesis deals with the overall topic of permanence vs. change in furniture design through the development of an adaptable lounge chair. The project explores how permanent structural elements can be combined with interchangeable parts as a means of responding to changing user needs and preferences.

Through the exploration of shape, form and material contrast, physical prototyping and user testing, I have developed a lounge chair that combines adaptability, comfort and material expression. A sturdy aluminium frame with a wooden backrest forms the permanent structural foundation, whilst interchangeable seats from different materials allow for variation in tactile and visual experiences. Through removable armrests, a new function is introduced to the chair, offering additional versatility in use and customization. Adaptation is performed entirely without tools, emphasizing ease of use and creating an effortless and rewarding user interaction. Through a conceptual approach, this project investigated material expression and contrast, which is represented through the deliberate use of materials and surfaces, highlighting individual qualities and creating a logical hierarchy of materials.

The final chair demonstrates an approach to adaptability through reduced complexity to achieve meaningful change within a design. It allows the user to transform the chair through simple interaction, evolving it over time to shape how it looks, feels and expresses itself.