When Hans J. Wegner introduced the CH07 Shell Chair design in 1963, many critics liked the avant-garde look, but the general public was reluctant to accept its distinctive expression. Mixed reviews in the 1960s and the less advanced production techniques of the time resulted in very limited production. When Carl Hansen & Søn reintroduced the Shell Chair in 1998, it almost immediately gained wide public admiration due to the interest of the new generation. The floating lightness of the design is achieved by its wing-like seat and curved backrest, held by a frame with three arched legs.
The chair’s signature seat and backrest are made of upholstered form pressed veneer that embraces the user in generous comfort. The chair’s laminated legs are made of several layers of veneer and the two front legs are made of a single element, resulting in a unique and solid form. The Shell Chair is a clear manifestation of Wegner’s belief that a chair should always be comfortable, have no backside and look beautiful from all sides and angles.