Motorcycles and furniture have been deeply entwined since the first motorized two-wheeled vehicle rolled down the road. With the notable exception of modern observed trials bikes, every motorcycle has a seat. Like motorcycles, chairs are industrial art—they serve a function, yet style is essential. That reality was not lost on Marcello Minale, who designed the Chopper chair 50 years ago after being inspired by custom motorcycles that appeared in the wake of Easy Riders.
Buster + Punch is a home fashion label based in London. However, there is a twist. Massimo Buster Minale, the founder of the brand that includes his name, comes from the world of architecture by way of London’s custom motorcycle subculture. Oh, and you might have noticed that the name Minale is common to both designers. Yes, Marcello Minale is the father of Massimo.
In Massimo’s revisiting of his father’s design for the first chair produced by Buster + Punch, young Minale did not abandon many of the Chopper chair’s signature features. Like the original, for instance, the Buster + Punch Chopper chair is stackable—conserving space is as necessary in London in 2023 as it was in 1973. Also returning are the chopper-like low-and-relaxed seating position and attendant proportions, a bent-tube steel frame, and a minimalist frame design worthy of the Chopper name. You are cradled in the chair as a V-twin is in a chopper frame, which is also bent-tube steel.
While Massimo’s updates make the Buster + Punch Chopper chair more contemporary, his father would undoubtedly approve of the results. For 2023, the steel tubing is painted black chrome, rather than Marcello’s use of bare chrome. Further, the seat and backrest have been refined. Both are now black full-grain leather that will age gracefully, and can be replaced when necessary. Keeping with the Chopper motif, personalization is adjustable straps that allow a seating position tailored to the owner.
Perhaps the only change Marcello may not give his stamp of approval is that the chair is shipped flat-packed, giving the buyer an Ikea-style assembly experience. Of course, during assembly, the new owner will undoubtedly appreciate the solid-brass logo caps that adorn the black chair with welcome highlights.
The Buster + Punch Chopper chair debuted in vibrant Shoreditch during the 22nd edition of the London Design Festival last month at a price of £1450.
Photography by Richard Gooding Photography, Still Moving Media et al
Buster + Punch Chopper Chair Photo Gallery
