Product design god Philippe Starck can make even the most banal product look good. From Ian Schrager-approved glitzy hotels to Target brand tape dispensers to underwear and spaceports, the Frenchman’s impeccable eye allows him to one-up pretty much any inventor ever. So it seems fitting that his most revered design might end up being a cheeky twist on a chair fit for a king — a clear, plastic piece of furniture that manages to be elegant instead of clunky. The ironic seat has had design-lovers coming out of their skull since its introduction in 2002: It sits permanently in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, mags like Real Simple claim it will appreciate in value ten fold in the coming years, and it’s even available in Lou Lou Ghost mini-varieties for equally decor snobby babies. But why ever is this ghoulishly named chair considered such a big whoopty-doo? Because Starck deigns use a plus-symbol instead of a “t” in his last name? The designer has said “I don’t work, I dream,” and at first glance, consumers might think he is dreaming to charge them $410 (the MoMA store’s current non-member rate) for a fancy plastic lawn chair.
But the Ghost chair’s appeal hangs on its mix of pedigree and innovation. Starck’s twist on the classic French Louis XVI attributes combines extreme geometry with feminine edge. The round back and slightly undulated arm gives way to a stick straight leg, a form that should be familiar to anyone who has heard of Versailles (or a modern estate sale). But Starck’s attention to 1000-level art history isn’t the only thing that’s impressive here. The chair is made by injecting plastic into a single-mold form, freeing it from any joints or bindings, creating a piece that is both delicate and indestructible. The polycarbonate is supposedly so hardcore it can handle all manner of abuse, with Kartell claiming it is shock, scratch and weather resistant as well. Aesthetically pleasing, meet tough as nails. When the New York Times briefly described the plastic chair after its unveiling at the International Furniture Fair in Milan in 2002, they said that it did three things brilliantly: “It makes Louis XV modern;
it stacks to save storage space; and it sells for $198.” Of course they got the price wrong, and later corrected it to $225, but their quick gush was just the beginning of the design world’s love affair with this now ubiquitous chair. As of August of this year, the NYT claims that over a million have been sold (no retraction on that one just yet). What they forgot to add is that the Louis Ghost is perfect for modern tiny living. The barely-there tinted Lucite makes it ideal for areas that you don’t want to appear visually crowded. Available in a host of opaque options (crystal, smoke, yellow, sunset orange, crystal green and ice blue), it works as nothing more than a whisper (or a rose-tinted one) in an interior. Those looking for more visual bang for their buck can opt for heftier matte colors like glossy white and black. Those looking to order 50 chairs with expensive creepy decals can check Unica Home for options that display their love of bears, masks or baby faces sans eyes.
Those looking to buy us a set can send a check made out to Flavorwire to 594 Broadway, Suite 1212, NY, NY 10012.Introduce Yourself & Start Shopping I accept the Terms and Conditions Louis Ghost Chair - Transparent Acrylic Dining Arm Chair Availability: In stock and ready to ship Size: 36.63"H x 20.88"W x 22.25"D Can Stack for Convenient Storage Great for outdoor and indoor use Call us at 1.631.270.4560 now for ordering in Bulk & Discounts Be the first to review this product Email to a Friend Why We Love It This design is a high quality replica and is in no way affiliated with the original manufacturer or designer. France and Son specializes in reproducing mid century furniture and lighting. We strive to stay as close to the original specifications and materials as possible, so customers can get their favorite designs for affordable prices, without sacrificing quality. France and Son's mid century furniture is tested to the highest standards to assure customer satisfaction.
Most orders ship in 3-7 business days 30 Day Hassle Free Return Policy. All merchandise must be returned in new condition. Buyer is responsible for round trip shipping. Please click here for more information. Write Your Own Review How do you rate this product? *Summary of Your Review You have no items in your shopping cart.Kartell Louis Ghost Chair, Set of Two View more by Kartell The Kartell Louis Ghost Chair:Designed by Philippe Starck.Part of the Kartell Louis Ghost Family.Materials: Transparent or batch-dyed polycarbonate Transparent or batch-dyed polycarbonateSuitable for indoor or outdoor use. Shock, scratch and weather resistant. Sold in sets of two. Matte glossy refers to opaque color with a glossy finish. 37.2 H X 21.4 W X 21.8 D; Why Buy From Us Ubiquitous yet unique, the Louis Ghost chair is a postmodern icon of design. Spawning countless copies, this glossy armchair is the creation of superstar designer Philipe Starck combining an eclectic mix of classical profile, modern form, and futuristic construction to give a contemporary twist to the Louis XV seat.
Please note, this design has a minimum order of two chairs and cannot be purchased individually. Please choose an option A modern classic designed by Philippe Starck Inspired by the classical Louis XV chair Innovatively moulded from polycarbonate Great for indoor or outdoor use Starck’s play on the past combines an eclectic mix of styles Reimagining the Louis XV dining chair for the modern home, Starck’s design replaces heavy furnishings with an innovative injected polycarbonate, using a single mould to achieve the continuous line of this stunning piece. Durable and weather proof, the versatile construction of the Louis Ghost means it can be used for both formal and alfresco dining, while its stackable design enables groups of chairs to be neatly stowed away.Please note, this design has a minimum order of two chairs and cannot be purchased individually. Specialist 1 Man Delivery Orders Less Than £500 Orders Greater Than £500 Feefo Reviews - Average 0% (0 reviews)