Architecture11 mins. read
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by Bansari PaghdarOct 17, 2025
Passage is an adaptable word. It can be observed in many spheres, from travel to literature and music. It suggests movement, fluidity and transition from one place to another. The Passage collection unveiled by Spanish brand Kettal in collaboration with Paris-based designer Ronan Bouroullec is no less versatile. This new ensemble of aluminium chair designs embodies the versatility reflected in its name, showcasing an ability to seamlessly blend into any setting—whether indoor or outdoor, public spaces or homes.
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The dark-coloured chairs add to the charm of moody interiors by creating a bold statement Image: Courtesy of Kettal -
Blending the finishes of the chair with its environment creates a serene visual Image: Courtesy of Kettal -
A rich balance of similar colours and finishes brings richness to a simple space Image: Courtesy of Kettal
Kettal has come a long way since its establishment in 1964 as a brand that produced aluminium camping equipment. It is now a global name in timeless contemporary designs, creating functional yet expressive furniture design. Bouroullec has worked on a variety of projects with Kettal, ranging from jewellery design to architecture. The product designer strives for growth and originality with every piece he works on as his ethos aligns with Kettal’s. Bouroullec's designs showcase simplicity and an alluring elegance while emphasising the quality and authenticity of materials, resulting in a meticulously designed versatile range of works. His latest collaborative endeavour with the brand expands on these tenets.
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The Passage chairs and coffee table adorning a terrace, in dialogue with its landscape Image: Courtesy of Kettal -
An array of Passage chairs and tables in a public setting in harmony with other Kettal furnishings Image: Courtesy of Kettal -
Elegant and bold aluminium furnishings set within the earthy interiors for a coherent ambience Image: Courtesy of Kettal
Seamlessly moving from one place to another, the Passage chair can be installed indoors or outdoors, displayed in a public space such as a cafe terrace, or discreetly placed at home, in an urban or natural setting. At first sight, the chair seems simple enough. But when we look at the details, we realise the technical sophistication of this product design, the high quality of the welds, the precision of the joints and the finesse of the backrest.
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Details of the Passage chair beside its complementary table Image: Courtesy of Kettal -
The aluminium backrest with slender flutes and a webbed seat highlight the textures of the materials Image: Courtesy of Kettal -
Seating made from uniformly packed rope with minute gaps makes for interesting shadows Image: Courtesy of Kettal
The Passage chair is composed of a soft and fluid aluminium structure, which slides over a backrest made from a single piece of extruded aluminium. The seat can be made from a single piece of aluminium, but it can also be made from wood, fabric, rope, webbing or straw. The variety of seat finishes gives this object a unique adaptability. The use of aluminium gives the Passage collection a lightness and strength that perfectly reflects the chair design’s versatility. Moreover, because it is recyclable, it is highly durable, no matter how it is used, significantly reducing its manufacturing carbon footprint.
The collection’s grounded and abiding design language makes for practical, relevant and lasting creations that rise above fleeting trends. Passage sensitively highlights its build with its thoughtful treatment of sustainable materials, providing a tactile and visual experience for users to connect with their surroundings. With its adaptability and a wide range of colours and textures, Passage promises the perfect setting to navigate and effortlessly complement any built environment gracefully.
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