There are certain philosophies that have transcended both cultural and geographic barriers, such to find universal acceptance in our way of life (no matter how simple or unique you might think you are).

Ying Yang. Designed by Nicolas Thomkins. Manufactured be Dedon.

Concepts like Dharma, Karma, Ying and Yang are no longer exclusive to the culture of the Exotic East, but have gained a penetrative foothold in Western consciousness as well. By that, I don't mean it being spouted like pop mythology on prime time American television shows such as Lost (although that also helps), but something more concrete and tangible. Hence it comes as no surprise that the almost paradoxical Chinese philosophy Ying and Yang is a source of inspiration for Designer Nicolas Tompkins. Created for Dedon, the Ying Yang Outdoor lounger is not just an artistic expression as it also represents the harmonious interplay of two dynamic opposites. “Yin” (black) and “Yang” (white) may be referred as “two mutually correlated opposites” and this duality is flawlessly expressed in the ancient Chinese symbol of Taijitu.

One can also argue that the tête-à-tête loungers reflect the theory of interdependence in their alternating convex and concave surfaces. The two chairs when nest together form an ideal singular design and a silhouette reminiscent of Taijitu. However the chairs can be also used separately as the concept of individuality lies at the core of Ying and Ying. Individually the chairs measure 32.8″ high, 75.2″ wide, have a seat height of 1811â„42′ and can be rotated to 360 degrees.

“The idea came to designer Nicolas Thomkins on the Island of Cebu’s beach of Olango. He sketched out the first draft of the design in the sand with a stick: a piece of furniture made up of two elements that appear as if they were formed by nature – like stones worn down by water or sand dunes shaped by the wind.”

The lounger has been made from 13,000 feet of bronze or platinum-hued Hularo synthetic fiber that has been hand-woven by Filipino artisans on the Cebu Island in the Philippines. The chairs hence not only have an understated elegance to them but also seem to caress the body with its curves. We also feel that the use of two congruent chairs that come together to form a single entity gives the Ying Yang lounger an almost numinous vibe.

Dedon has made the lounger available in light platinum and dark bronze to embody two primal opposing but complementary principles, which is highlighted by the contrasting colors.