保护就位·家具设计

On Belay

On Belay is a lounge chair created using retired climbing ropes as its primary seating material. The project explores the emotional and sustainable potential of materials that once served a life-protecting function.

Through weaving and structural integration, the ropes are transformed into a flexible seating surface, giving them a second life beyond climbing. The chair aims to bridge sustainability, craftsmanship, and storytelling—turning equipment once associated with safety and trust into a place for rest and reflection.

The project takes inspiration from the climbing term “On Belay", which represents a relationship of trust and protection between climber and belayer.

This concept is translated into furniture design: a chair that supports and holds the body much like a rope system supports a climber. By reusing retired climbing ropes, the design preserves the history embedded within the material while giving it a renewed purpose.

Materials & Craft

The chair combines reclaimed climbing ropes with a Kapur wood frame. Although retired ropes can no longer be used for safety-critical climbing purposes, they still maintain significant strength and elasticity, making them suitable for furniture applications.

Traditional weaving techniques were combined with climbing knotting methods to secure the ropes onto the frame. The wooden structure uses classic joinery techniques such as lap joints and bridle joints, reinforced with dual dowels at the frame corners to ensure durability and stability.

The woven rope seat creates a soft and flexible surface that adapts naturally to the human body. The tension of the ropes distributes weight evenly, providing ergonomic support without the need for rigid cushioning.

This interaction evokes the sense of security associated with climbing protection systems — offering a subtle feeling of support, balance, and calm.

Making Process