The Sinking Chair—a striking fusion of modern design and haunting symbolism—appears to descend into a pool of vivid red, evoking both unease and introspection. Inspired by Stanley Kubrick's The Shining and crafted from 3D-printed concrete, it explores the lingering impact of trauma, history, and political turmoil. With its stark architectural form clashing against fluid resin, the piece challenges perceptions of memory, fragility, and resilience. More than just a chair, it is a statement—urging us to confront the past, engage with the present, and question the future of design's role in human experience.

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

Paris Tsitsos

The Sinking Chair: A Reflection on Conflict and Humanity

The Sinking Chair—seemingly descending into a pool of vivid red—captures a haunting interplay between modern design and profound narrative. Crafted from 3D-printed concrete and inspired by Stanley Kubrick's The Shining, the work symbolizes the enduring traces of trauma. Its clean, architectural form contrasts sharply with the fluid, organic resin symbolizing blood, evoking unease and introspection.

This piece embodies the idea that design holds the power to confront deeply human experiences. By addressing themes of collective trauma and the cyclical nature of conflict, the Sinking Chair invites viewers to reflect on the scars of the past and how they shape the present. It subtly alludes to contemporary political developments, including the resurgence of authoritarian tendencies and ideological divisions, which echo historical warnings and reinforce the importance of vigilance and empathy.

The chair explores the delicate tension between what is submerged and what persists, urging contemplation of memory, fragility, and resilience. Through its evocative design and material innovation, the Sinking Chair bridges the emotional and the functional, sparking dialogue about the evolving role of design in engaging with the human condition. It challenges us to consider not only what design can achieve aesthetically, but also how it can evoke empathy, reflection, and healing in an increasingly complex and polarized world.

For the construction of the piece, a chair was first 3D-printed using concrete. Once the printing process was complete, the chair was placed on a base plate composed of wood and glass fibers, providing structural support. The entire assembly was then embedded within a mould, into which tinted epoxy resin was poured, enveloping the structure to create a seamless and durable finish. After the resin had fully cured, the base plate was meticulously sanded and polished to achieve a high-gloss finish, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and tactile quality.

Video about the project: https://youtu.be/810_QQ0b5sQ?si=dRlkp9c4UavWd_3z

The piece will debut at Isola Design Gallery, April 7–13, 2025, at Basic Village, Via Dell'Aprica 12, Milan. Milan Designweek 2025.

All photos © by Paris Tsitsos

Sinking Chair, 2025

90 cm x 136 cm x 55 cm (W/D/H)

3D printed concrete, resin, wood, glass fibres

Limited Edition of 8 + 2 A/P and 1 Prototype

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