The program for the F4 line of user-responsive conference and touchdown task seating called for a comfortable sit, a slight range of motion and minimal, intuitive adjustments, for gas-lift height and tilt lock.

The reactive seat-support system enhances comfort and reduces user fatigue. The integrated tilt mechanism moves in harmony with the body’s natural axis of hip rotation. A cast yoke accommodates the adjustment mechanism in its rails while leaving the seat area open below to flex freely.

The limited range of motion permitted Fig40 to create a form that reads as monolithic, with the slightest of splits between the seat and back structure. The seat straddles this split, connecting to both sides and flexing with the back. When the back reclines, a gap never opens at the back of the seat.

The design was influenced by the low-profile suspension of Corvette sports cars; Fig40 partner Terence Woodside’s first job was as mechanical engineer in the automotive industry.