Manufacturer Dedon turned 20 this year. And though that’s hardly old, they have no qualms about asserting their design prowess, especially in regards to their signature achievements in woven polypropylene: “The first to weave synthetic fiber into luxury outdoor designs, the first to place an absolute premium on quality, the first to become a truly global brand, DEDON revolutionized the business of outdoor furniture from the moment we took production into our own hands.” The company definitely has a point, for how else to explain their recent collaboration with superstar Philippe Starck, whose Play Collection of fun and fanciful chairs is grabbing many an A & D headline this month.

Play. Designed by Philippe Starck for Dedon.

“Play” is the perfect name for a line designed by Starck. One might fairly make the claim that his design philosophy is heavy on imagination. In fact, he describes his process thusly: “I was dreaming… I had a vision… I have an idea, and I design a pure concept. From the brain to the final chair it’s completely dematerialized… it’s automatique” (throw in a rather heavy French accent for the full “Starckian” effect).

In regards to one of the collection’s standout pieces–the Play Lounge Chair–the imaginative process must have involved channeling the funky modern vibe of Henrik Thor-Larsen, whose Ovalia Egg Chair achieved iconic status in the late 60s. But really the resemblance is only skin deep. While Thor-Larsen’s piece was a true ovoid, Starck’s has a thinner, slightly irregular profile. In fact, its single-piece molded polypropylene and fiberglass construction and plush vibrant orange interior puts me in mind of a halved and pitted papaya. With its multiple incarnations (floor lounger, hanging lounger, and a base-less pair perched on a pretty platform), the Play Lounger is sure to be every bit as sweet and twice as refreshing.

Via Trendir.