About this Display

Throughout history, and across the world, people have used the materials around them to make the things they need. From a handcrafted object in a pre-industrial world, to the mass-produced object of today, the chair has been a faithful, multi-functional companion to the human species for millennia. The rise of the ‘Information Age’ and more sedentary jobs have turned chairs into central props in most of our lives; the COVID-19 pandemic only serving to amplify this.

The demands, desires and needs of 21st century life, calls for more innovative and dynamic designers. However unlike in the past, design today must be driven by more than just form and function. At a time when the planet is facing a climate emergency, and society is split by inequality and exploitation, designers must create products that are functional and appealing, but also sustainable, inclusive and ethical.

For this special display, the V&A have loaned Christchurch Mansion the ‘Lilla H’ plywood chair, designed by Caroline Schlyter.

DesignLab Nation is part of the V&A’s National Schools Programme, which aims to inspire the next generation of designers, makers and innovators and expand the reach of the V&A collections. The programme brings together secondary schools in partnership with regional museums, designers, industries and the V&A to engage students and support teachers through in-depth design projects.

For useful information, such as how to find us, what to expect when you arrive and what facilities we have, we recommend reading our Access information: Access at Christchurch Mansion | Ipswich Museums.