Seminar KVT1 is an archetype of a solid wooden Ostrobothnian chair, with light and well-proportioned structures.
It was originally developed as a model piece for the design students by the founder of Nikari, master Kari Virtanen, when he wanted to show the characteristics of a proper wooden chair in practice.
Kari Virtanen
The Finnish carpenter Kari Virtanen founded his first workshop at the age of 19. His ambitious approach to the craft caught the attention of the most powerful figures in Finnish design. His first collaboration partners were Alvar Aalto and Kaj Franck. He has been a sought-after partner for designers in need of a skilled cabinetmaker. Virtanen’s works are widely used in public spaces and reception facilities. He creates the pure and restrained design, evolved from the intended use of the object, its structure and the characteristics of wood. The goal is to create an implicit form. Virtanen’s chairs Kiasma have been chosen for the Museum of Contemporary Art, since “it was not designed”. Kari Virtanen has received several awards, for e.g. the Design State Award in Finland in 2005 or the Bruno Mathsson award for Nordic design.
Nikari is a wood design studio and furniture manufacturer, established in 1967.