A lighter take on a bold character

The Hippo Steel Chair offers a fresh interpretation of the bold, free-spirited character of the original Hippo series, known for its distinctive wooden profile.

While preserving the sculptural upholstered seat and backrest that define the family, Hippo Steel introduces a minimal new design language by replacing the wooden base with a refined steel frame. The result is a lighter, more defined expression than its predecessor.

The soft, rounded forms that give the Hippo series its friendly and confident silhouette are retained, but the use of steel brings a new sense of lightness. Thanks to the strength of the material, the frame can be made with thinner dimensions without sacrificing durability, giving the chair a more streamlined and contemporary profile. Crafted from tubular steel, the frame is lightweight and easy to move, ideal for flexible spaces like meeting rooms, canteens and collaborative environments.

The design of Hippo Steel retains the same architectural quality as its wooden counterpart, with the familiar two-legged profile that has become synonymous with the series. An elegant bend in the steel frame is made intentionally, highlighting a conscious design choice to add a curve to the otherwise angular and stringent frame. The detail also reflects the presence of human craftsmanship in making the chair and serves as an attempt to soften the look of the chair – a very characteristic trait of NORR11 designs.

More minimal than the original Hippo series, the Hippo Steel Chair can be dressed up or down depending on the setting. Its simplified design allows it to blend in more subtly if preferred, while still retaining the ability to stand out.

YEAR
2025

DESIGNER
Kristian Sofus Hansen & Tommy Hyldahl

Images and content courtesy of Norr11.
Find out more about their work at https://norr11.com