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Redefining the Task Chair with Innovation, Comfort, and Sustainability
The Remode Task Chair, a collaboration between renowned architect Ben van Berkel and Dutch office furniture brand Ahrend, introduces a new standard in workplace seating. Inspired by the supportive and colorful design principles of athletic footwear, this chair merges ergonomic performance with a strong commitment to sustainable practices.
Crafted with a focus on modularity and longevity, the Remode chair can be fully disassembled, with each component replaceable or recyclable. Over half of its materials are sourced from recycled content, making it a responsible and forward-thinking choice for modern workspaces. 
Materials and Construction Overview
| Component | Material Used | Sustainable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Seat and backrest | Akulon RePurposed Polyamide (by Envalior) | Sourced from discarded ocean fishing nets |
| Structural frame | Lightweight steel and aluminium | Recyclable and corrosion-resistant |
| Armrests | Zamak (zinc alloy) | Durable and recyclable |
| Cushioning | Polyurethane foam | Long-lasting and supportive |
| Finishes | Black, light grey, or pink | Low-emission, non-toxic coatings |
Designed with the Environment in Mind
Every aspect of the Remode chair is designed with sustainability in focus. The modular build allows individual parts to be repaired or replaced without discarding the entire unit, promoting a longer lifespan and reducing landfill waste.
Central to its eco-friendly construction is Akulon RePurposed polyamide, a material developed by Envalior, made from recycled fishing nets. This contributes to the chair being approximately 30 percent lighter than conventional task chairs, lowering its carbon footprint during manufacturing and transportation.
Footwear-Inspired Design Meets Office Ergonomics
Ben van Berkel, founder of UNStudio, approached the project by studying the design of high-performance athletic footwear. He noted that shoes in this category offer dynamic support, innovative materials, and expressive aesthetics—all of which he aimed to incorporate into the chair.
According to van Berkel, the project stemmed from a shared goal between his studio and Ahrend to reimagine sustainability in office design. Ahrend’s objective was to create a chair that not only met the highest sustainability standards but also stood out visually and functionally.
Ergonomic Features for Daily Comfort
The Remode chair was built for comfort and adaptability in active work environments. Its features support dynamic movement and help reduce fatigue during long hours of use. Key ergonomic elements include:
- Synchro-motion mechanism with optional fine-tuning for posture control
- Adjustable lumbar support to improve lower back alignment
- Customizable seat depth and armrests for a tailored fit
- Breathable backrest design to enhance airflow
These features contribute to a healthier sitting posture, making the chair suitable for a wide range of users and work settings.
Aesthetic Versatility with Contemporary Finishes
The Remode chair is available in three finish options: black, light grey, and soft pink. Its modern silhouette and slim profile allow it to blend seamlessly into a variety of interiors, whether in open-plan offices, home workspaces, or creative studios.
The chair’s lightweight frame and flowing lines add to its contemporary look, aligning with today’s preferences for minimal and functional design.
A Partnership Grounded in Circular Design
The collaboration between Ben van Berkel and Ahrend is rooted in a shared dedication to circular economy principles. Ahrend, a leader in sustainable office furniture, saw the Remode chair as a way to push boundaries in both aesthetics and ecological responsibility.
Van Berkel emphasized their mutual interest in enriching sustainable design, aiming to create a chair that represents a new generation of environmentally conscious office furniture.
Their approach aligns with global efforts to adopt circular practices, as supported by organizations such as the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which advocates for design strategies that minimize waste and extend product life.
Product Details and Contact Information
Product: Remode Task Chair
Designer: Ben van Berkel
Brand: Ahrend
Contact Email: [email protected]
Dimensions: 550 x 1095 millimetres
Color Options: Black, Light Grey, Pink
Materials: Polyamide 6, steel, aluminium, zamak, polyurethane
For additional specifications, custom requests, or bulk orders, visit Ahrend’s official website.
The Remode Task Chair is more than just an office seat. It represents a vision of what sustainable design can look like when creativity and innovation meet responsible manufacturing. From recycled materials and modular construction to ergonomic performance and sleek design, it brings together function and values in a way that few products do.
By choosing products like the Remode chair, companies and individuals can contribute to a more sustainable future—without compromising on quality or design.
