Dubbed the chair capital of the world, the northeastern Italian city of Udine hosted its 32nd International Chair Exhibition from September 13th through 16th showcasing the best the industry has to offer in terms of technology, innovative use of materials, and of course, design. - Linda C. Lentz

Svelte seating
The Residential Chair of the Year, Frida by Odoardo Fioravanti, is an innovative mix of solid oak and thin molded plywood notable for its comfort, light weight, and slim, fluid form. Pedrali, Mornico Al Serio, Italy. www.pedrali.it

[Reader Service: November 2008 #200]

Hip hybrid
The Punk chair by Studio Archirivolto, awarded Contract Chair of the Year, has a polypropylene base available in two neutrals and three brights topped by a backrest of transparent polycarbonate that comes in similar hues — allowing up to 25 color combinations. Gordon, New York City. www.gordoninternational.com

[Reader Service: November 2008 #201]

Comfy curvy
One of the show’s Top Ten picks, Flex Too is a cantilevered gem by U.S. designer John Niero that features a springy, yet sturdy stainless-steel tubular frame and an amply padded seat. ILS Collection, Manzano, Italy. www.ilscollection.it

[Reader Service: November 2008 #202]

 

Sea worthy
Design team Lucidi Pevere’s Randa is a spirited UV-resistant combination of high-performance nautical rope and chromed or lacquered metal equally suited to indoor and al fresco dining. Debi, San Vito al Torre, Italy. www.debi.it

[Reader Service: November 2008 #203]

Design study
Created in 1937 by Gio Ponti for the Livianum department of literature at Padua University, the solid beech Livia chair has been updated in a range of trendy colors and stains, plus the option of an upholstered seat. L’Abbate, Tavagnacco, Italy. www.lacollection.it

[Reader Service: November 2008 #204]

Functional format
An ingenious arrangement of modular seating and tables, Molecule by Stefano Bigi provides commodious seating for public and reception areas, then fits like a puzzle when floor space is required. La Cividina USA, Sea Cliff, N.Y. www.lacividina.com

[Reader Service: November 2008 #205]