Branding News: Design choice - Louis Ghost chair

by Tamara Gillan, Founder and managing director, SPF 15 Marketing 14-Jun-06

Yes, I know, it's a plastic chair and it costs £140.

Some may think that's a bit steep, but on the other hand, Starck's Louis Ghost chair is a fine example of the designer's visual humour, and many aficionados of his work would say it's a small price to pay to own such an iconic design. Whether it's an homage to classic furniture or a nose thumbed at its pretentiousness, I don't know - and I don't care. This is a glorious piece of design and, like so many of Starck's pieces, never fails to raise a smile.

Its functionality is undeniable. Too many 'clever' chair designs numb the posterior or bring on backache within minutes. But this does exactly what a plastic chair should do: you can sit on it in great comfort. It is strong, weatherproof and can be stacked. Injection-moulded in a single piece, it is available in clear polycarbonate or a range of colours. Its classic references make it smart but cool enough to use as a dining chair, but it also works brilliantly in the garden, lending a quirky touch of Versailles to any patio.

It is beautiful, practical and humorous, qualities to which Philippe Starck has remained faithful since the early 90s when he burst into our consciousness with a lemon juicer that resembled a War of the Worlds Martian tripod. Perhaps that's why his design is so enduring - it just makes you feel good.

- Design: Philippe Starck.