Journal
Can you briefly introduce yourself and the Kaska Chair?
My name is Thomas Bentzen. I’m a designer based in Copenhagen, Denmark, where I create shapes for everyday objects — mainly furniture. My process is very hands-on: I think and work through sketching and model-making, both fast and slow, small and large scale. I’m deeply curious about materials — their potential, their limitations — and I always strive to find craftsmanship within industrial production. I enjoy working closely with manufacturers and suppliers, and I’m especially drawn to natural materials like wood, which plays a central role in the Kaska Chair.
The Kaska Chair is a light, strong, and stackable all-wooden chair made from a mix of solid wood and molded plywood. At first glance, it appears simple and precise, clean lines, minimal elements. Nothing to add, nothing to take away. But there are subtle, thoughtful details: the twisted back legs that naturally lead into the curved backrest, the seat’s sculpted profile with its soft ‘waterfall’ front edge, and a backrest that hides small but important refinements — a gentle central curve for added comfort, and bent lower corners that reduce wear when stacking. It’s an elegant, comfortable chair, stripped of all that’s unnecessary — except its lightness.
How would you describe your design philosophy, and how does the Kaska Chair embody that philosophy?
In the studio, our work always begins with the hands — with sketching, prototyping, model-making. I come from a Scandinavian design tradition that values simplicity, honesty in materials, and human-scale functionality. For me, design should be clear, precise, and meaningful. The Kaska Chair embodies this philosophy: it’s straightforward in appearance, yet full of considered decisions and crafted nuances — a result of working closely with both material and maker.
Could you explain the different parts of the Kaska Chair, their functions, and how they align with your design vision?
Each part of the Kaska Chair is designed with purpose and clarity. The angled back legs aren’t just a visual gesture — they naturally extend into the curved backrest, giving it both structure and flow. The seat is molded for comfort, with its highest point just behind the front edge, allowing for a relaxed, supported posture. The ‘waterfall’ front ensures soft pressure on the legs when seated. The backrest features small yet essential details — a gentle top curve that adds comfort, and bent lower corners that prevent wear and tear when stacked. All elements are stripped to their essentials — nothing superfluous, everything refined.
How would you describe the collaboration with De Vorm? How has it impacted the design process and you as a designer?
De Vorm and I share a similar approach to design — functionality and materials are always the starting point. We both value long-lasting quality and sustainability, not just in the materials themselves but also in how things are made. The collaboration has been close and constructive, and it allowed us to dig deep into the process, from prototyping to fine-tuning the smallest detail. That level of dialogue and shared vision has pushed the chair — and me — further.
In what kinds of settings or situations did you envision the Kaska Chair being used?
Kaska is designed for environments where functionality and flexibility matter — especially where stacking is needed. Think conference rooms, restaurants, cafés, or cultural venues. It’s a refined and versatile companion that fits in without shouting, bringing warmth and clarity wherever it goes.
