Main Project – Plans and Alternatives – Ski Chair

For my main project, I have chosen to create a lounging outdoor chair constructed from a collection of vintage ski sets. This project is personal to me because my dad has been collecting these skis for over 30 years and has always dreamed of owning one. I plan on repurposing his collection, mostly 1990s and early 2000s models from popular brands like K2. The final piece will serve as both a functional piece of outdoor furniture and a tribute to my dad who taught me how to ski.

The primary aesthetic for my project is rooted in a blend of rustic nostalgia and mountaincore. The look of the old skis evokes a sense of history, while their old-school graphics and vintage design show the 90s ski culture. This aesthetic emphasizes authenticity and heritage, where each ski tells a story of past expeditions. The overall design will balance functionality with vintage charm transforming these relics into a modern yet timeless lounging chair. (Featured Image).

While my main project leans heavily on this vintage outdoor adventure aesthetic, I have also explored two alternative design directions that offer wildly different interpretations of the same basic structure. In one of the reimagined versions, the chair would look sleek and high-tech. Instead of emphasizing the nostalgic look of the skis, the design would feature smooth, polished surfaces with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. The skis would be integrated as sculptural elements, perhaps coated in a monochrome finish to unify their appearance. Maybe I could also add LED lighting to add an element when sitting in it at night. I have included my own sketch. (Image 1).

The second alternative takes a drastically different approach by infusing the project with a bohemian and eclectic vibe. Here, the emphasis is on vibrant, unexpected combinations and a playful mix of patterns and textures. I could look for skis from the 70s and make the colors have high contrast. This version celebrates the beauty of imperfection and self-expression, resulting in a piece that is as much a work of art as it is a functional piece of furniture like the other chairs. (Image 2,3).

Exploring these alternatives has been an interesting process and has made me think about changing the look of my design (even though I probably won’t). The futuristic minimalism option would strip away the character of the skis, replacing it with a vision of modernity. The bohemian eclectic approach would amplify the individuality in the old skis by combining them with crazy textures. Each aesthetic speaks to a different idea of design philosophy because one values simplicity while the other in creativity and chaos.

Ultimately, I am drawn to the original concept because it marries personal history with practical design. I also think this since I have the skis I need to use already (and if I need more I can find for cheap on Facebook Marketplace). I also plan to give this project to my dad when I am finished for gifting me the skis and teaching me the ability to ski.

Works Cited

Featured Image Link: 2023, 11 Cool things made from Recycled Materials

Image 1: My sketch of the ski chair with a sleek and minimalistic look.

Image 2: My sketch of the ski chair with a 70s and chaotic look (bohemian)

Image 3: A ski chair that is more chaotic looking and has high contrasting colors. 2021, http://adkskichairs.com The Original Ski Chair from Adirondack Ski Chairs of Lake Placid