Keitto Dining Chair

This is the first build of a new design that I am tentatively calling the Keitto Chair - a dining chair here in American cherry, finished in beeswax. The design came about after months (maybe over a year) of trying different orientations, ultimately pairing back toward the simplest form of expression.

The 2” thick seat features a series of quartersawn bookmatched faces, with a rounded-over edge at the top. The radius matches that of the legs. The seat back top rail is laminated cherry, shaped for a soft touch. While sturdy, the chair is not too heavy. Grabbing by the top rail or legs to reposition the seat is pleasant. One can feel the subtleties of the wood grain through the beeswax.

Due to the upright feel and high backrest, the chair encourages one to sit forward, attentive to a meal with friends or family. The top rail gently cradles the shoulder blades. The next build will have a 6” shorter back rest to cradle the mid/lower back; the chair will eventually be available to purchase in either height (shown is 36” high; to come is 30”).

Lately, we have been enjoying weekly to twice-weekly soups in our home. Hence the chair’s name: Keitto: Finnish for soup. I want my furniture to help form memories. Warm meals in the winter with family and friends, framed by tactile, intentionally-designed furniture.