Interview: Designer Creates a Colorful Herd of Animal-Inspired Chairs

What materials do you use?

The chairs are made in high dense polyurethane, which it is as consistent and resilient as solid wood. They contain an internal metallic frame to reinforce the structure of the entire composition. We are using the latest in 3D modeling software as well as cutting-edge engineering production and manufacturing techniques, in order to achieve the most accurate and finest outcome.

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Elephant Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Elephant Chair”

Each piece is so lifelike, in terms of scale and fine details. How important is it for your designs to be biologically accurate?

I find it very interesting to see people’s reactions when they get to see the pieces in person for the first time… You have to keep in mind that some of these pieces are over two meters high and weigh almost two hundred kilos. Keeping the scale of the real animal is one key element of this project.

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Walrus Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Toad Sofa”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Toad Sofa”

Do you have a favorite piece?

If I have to choose one, it would be the Octopus Chair. This was the first piece of the collection, in order to produce it, lots of challenges have to be faced and overcome. It is by far the most recognized and symbolical piece of the collection.

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Octopus Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Octopus Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Octopus Chair”

Do you have any upcoming projects or exhibitions you'd like to share?

At the moment, we are developing the new website, which is a virtual gallery where the visitor will be able to see the pieces from different angles and views, having total control of surrounding space of each creation for a complete and interactive experience of the collection.

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Rhino Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Rhino Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Baby Elephant Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Baby Elephant Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Whale Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Whale Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Buffalo Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Buffalo Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Beetle Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Beetle Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Hippo Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Hippo Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Hippo Chair”

Animal Chairs by Máximo Riera Studio

“The Hippo Chair”

Máximo Riera: Website | Instagram | Pinterest

My Modern Met granted permission to use photos by Máximo Riera.

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Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
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