Marfa, Texas, USA
The Conduit Chair marks a pivotal moment for SILLA, translating nearly three decades of site-specific design practice into an object intended for a wider public. Rooted in the material logic and environmental awareness of the Chihuahuan Desert, the chair embodies a balance between structural clarity, comfort, and a quiet sensitivity to place.
At its core, the Conduit Chair is a study in restraint and intention. Its frame is constructed from ½-inch powder-coated conduit, each section bent from full 10-foot lengths. This decision—preserving the total available length of the material—acts as both a constraint and a guiding principle, allowing the form to emerge through necessity rather than excess. The resulting structure is defined by a rhythm of intersections and parallel lines, where each bend contributes to both strength and visual coherence.
The seat and back are formed by a woven textile sling suspended within rectangular frames, offering a soft counterpoint to the precision of the metal. Honduran mahogany armrests introduce warmth and tactility, while milled bronze end caps provide a subtle, grounding finish. As with all SILLA designs, the details are resolved in ways that are more felt than immediately noticed—yet essential to the integrity of the final object.
Available in two launch variations, the chair reflects a nuanced approach to color and atmosphere: a Lichen Green frame paired with an aqua and white sling, and a Cha Cha Purple frame paired with a sunrise and orange sling. These combinations echo the tonal shifts and textures of the desert landscape, while allowing for interchangeability between slings and frames. The initial release will include 25 units of each variation, with additional production dependent on demand.
Collaboration plays a key role in the Conduit Chair’s development. Working with Franklin Mountain Packaging, SILLA created a shipping container that can be disassembled and reconstructed into a functional chair—extending the life of the packaging beyond its primary purpose. Textile partner WOVNS developed custom woven slings, contributing both technical expertise and a refined material sensibility to the project.
About
SILLA was founded in 1997 by Joey Benton, whose background in sculpture and fabrication informs the studio’s approach to design. After studying at the Rhode Island School of Design and working in metal casting and fabrication, Benton moved to Marfa, Texas, where his experience with the Judd Foundation shaped a lasting commitment to material clarity and spatial awareness. Established in the remote conditions of the Chihuahuan Desert, SILLA developed a resourceful, hands-on practice that continues to define its work today.
