About A Chair (AAC) 10 series / Sled Base Side Chair
Seating (Dining / Side Chair / Contract Seating) · Contemporary Scandinavian Modern (21st Century) · Hee Welling for HAY
Type
Seating (Dining / Side Chair / Contract Seating)
Style Period
Contemporary Scandinavian Modern (21st Century)
Material
Injection-molded polypropylene (plastic) shell; powder-coated steel rod sled base
Age Estimate
Contemporary; likely manufactured between 2010 and the present
Dimensions
Height: 78 cm (30.7 inches), Width: 51 cm (20 inches), Depth: 52 cm (20.5 inches); standard dining height
Origin
Denmark (Design); Manufactured in China or Europe for the global market
Designer/Maker
Hee Welling for HAY
Value Estimate
$250 - $400 USD per chair (Retail Value); $100 - $180 (Secondary/Auction market)
Description
A hallmark of New Nordic design, the About A Chair series features a rounded, embracing shell that balances minimalism with approachability. The sled-base version offers a slim, architectural profile that allows the chair to feel light in a space while providing excellent stability. Its silhouette is defined by the soft curves of the backrest contrasting with the sharp, linear geometry of the steel base.
Key Features
Curved polypropylene shell with a wide seat, slender steel rod sled base, monochromatic finish (matching shell and base), and stackable design
Color & Finish
Matte mustard yellow, sage green, and soft lavender/grey. The finish is non-reflective and smooth with powder-coated matching metal bases
Construction Method
Industrial mass-production; machine-molded shells attached to a welded steel frame via four screw points under the seat
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Bent and welded steel rod construction with clean, precision welds; molding quality is high with no visible flashing or parting lines
Wood Grain & Species
None; synthetic polymer materials
Surface Treatment
Pigmented matte polypropylene; powder-coated metal provides a durable, chip-resistant surface
Upholstery Details
None (non-upholstered shell). Designed for ergonomic comfort without padding, though versions can be fully or front-upholstered
Hardware & Fittings
Countersunk screws attaching shell to base (not visible from front); likely features translucent plastic gliders on the bottom of the sleds
Origin & Provenance
Denmark (Design); Manufactured in China or Europe for the global market
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The surfaces appear uniform with no visible scratching, UV fading, or structural stress marks on the plastic
Interesting Facts
The 'About A Chair' collection was intended to be a family of chairs where all shells and bases are interchangeable, allowing for hundreds of combinations in aesthetics and function
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'New Nordic' movement which emphasizes affordable high design, functionality, and the use of modern polymers to create organic shapes for democratic use
Similar Pieces
Often confused with the Muuto Fiber Chair (which uses wood fiber composite) or the Eames Plastic Side Chair (which has a more distinct 'scalloped' edge and different base attachment)
Care & Maintenance
Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners which can mar the matte plastic surface. Periodically check tightness of base screws.
Value Estimate
$250 - $400 USD per chair (Retail Value); $100 - $180 (Secondary/Auction market)
Sustainability Notes
Polypropylene is recyclable; HAY increasingly uses 100% recycled plastic (AAC ECO) for the shells in this series. The modular construction allows for easy disassembly and part replacement.