Concrete LC2, designed by Stefan Zwicky in 1980, is a reinterpretation of the iconic LC2 armchair created by Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, and Charlotte Perriand. Zwicky’s version, named “Grand confort, sans confort, Dommage à Corbu,” replaces the traditional materials with concrete and steel, creating a stark contrast to the original’s minimalist elegance.
The armchair, part of an edition of 35, bears a metal label with the inscription: “Great comfort, without comfort, homage to Corbu, Stefan Zwicky, 1980, artist’s proof.” This design was first produced for the exhibition “Vor dem Abbruch” at the Kunstmuseum in Bern. The chair’s dimensions are 76 cm (30 in.) in height, 70 cm (27 1/2 in.) in width, and 66 cm (26 in.) in depth.
Stefan Zwicky, a Swiss-born interior designer, challenged the simplicity and perception of Le Corbusier’s iconic form by using raw materials like concrete and industrial iron. This reinterpretation not only maintains the geometric precision of the original but also transforms it into a sculptural piece that invites a reevaluation of materiality in design. The concrete’s raw texture and the industrial steel framework add a new dimension to the chair, emphasizing durability and challenging the conventional aesthetics of modern furniture.
The Concrete LC2 by Stefan Zwicky is not just a piece of furniture but a commentary on the evolution of design. By juxtaposing concrete and steel with the classic LC2 form, Zwicky highlights the timelessness and adaptability of the original design while pushing the boundaries of traditional furniture materials. This innovative approach has been documented in literature, including Jean Louis Gaillemin’s “Design versus Design” and Adam Lindemann’s “Collection Design.”
The armchair has been exhibited at significant venues and is a notable piece in design history. Its unique material composition and homage to Le Corbusier make it a considerable reinterpretation that continues to inspire architects and designers. Sotheby’s has estimated the cost of one of these pieces between 15,000 – 25,000 EUR.
