THONET – THE S 243 TUBULAR STEEL CHAIR BY FRANK RETTENBACHER

Images courtesy of Thonet

Modular Design Embodies Simplicity and Versatility

Thonet’s heritage in tubular steel design dates back to the 1930s, with iconic pieces like Mart Stam’s S 43 and S 33, and Marcel Breuer’s S 32. The latest addition, the S 243 by Frank Rettenbacher, continues this tradition with a minimalist yet functional design that reflects Thonet’s timeless aesthetic.

Crafted with a tubular steel frame and moulded plywood seat and backrest, the S 243 embodies simplicity and versatility. It is a lightweight, four-leg, stackable chair, available in various versions and color presented at Orgatec 2024.

Presented by Molteni&C

Rettenbacher aimed to create a pure, modest form that seamlessly fits into contemporary and future spaces while honoring Thonet’s legacy. The S 243 demonstrates agility and adaptability, suitable for both residential and office environments. Its modular design allows for easy replacement of components, enhancing longevity and sustainability. The chair’s structure features two supporting back legs with a 25 mm diameter and slimmer 18 mm front legs, forming a continuous line for a lightweight appearance. Minimal technical elements are visible, with only the rivets connecting the backrest to the back legs.

Available in three versions—S 243 with a moulded plywood seat and backrest, S 243 SPV with a fully upholstered seat and plywood backrest, and S 243 PV with a fully upholstered seat and partially upholstered backrest—the chair also offers frame options in chrome or powder-coated finishes in various colors.

The dimensions are 48 x 79 x 52 cm, with a seat height of 47 cm (48 cm with upholstery) and a weight of approximately 5.5 kg. An optional fixed folding row connector allows for row seating arrangements, ideal for restaurants and contract settings. Rettenbacher, who fondly recalls sitting on Thonet chairs as a child, aimed to create a piece that is timeless, subtle, and iconic, effortlessly blending into diverse environments.