PØBEL

Oskar Keller

Sitka spruce, often called pøbel spruce in Norway, has its origin on the northwest shores of America, from California to Alaska. It was introduced to Norway during the 50s through the 70s as part of the national afforestation initiative. Over the past years it has got a lot of negative attention in Norway, being accused of damaging biodiversity where it grows, spreading uncontrollably and producing low quality materials. However, studies conducted in Norway and experiences of those working first hand with Sitka materials do not align with these claims.

The aim of this project is to exemplify inherent qualities of Sitka spruce through the design of a lounge chair. The idea was to make a chair that highlights inherent aesthetic qualities of the material, while at the same time being a standalone sculpture.

Pøbel is a small solid wood lounge chair with a strong character. The orientation of its components makes it a spatial sculpture with an inviting expression, as well as giving it a solid construction. Its form highlights different material aspects of the wood through its generous surfaces and exposed end grain.