What mode are you in? Ahrend joins forces with UNStudio to create ‘Remode’, the most sustainable task chair yet.

Ahrend and UNStudio proudly present ‘Remode’: a uniquely sustainable, ergonomic, and adaptable office chair. Inspired by sneaker design, the Remode is the result of a collaboration between office furniture specialist Ahrend and UNStudio, one of the world’s leading architectural firms.

The Most Sustainable Office Chair

Ben van Berkel: “Ahrend asked us to design an office chair that is as circular as possible. Naturally, it had to look good, but they primarily wanted it to excel in terms of sustainability and ergonomics.”

From the outset of the Remode design process, sustainability was the main focus for both UNStudio and Ahrend, resulting in a chair made from exceptionally durable and responsible materials. It is also remarkably lightweight and largely disassemblable, allowing individual parts to be easily repaired, replaced, and recycled, significantly extending the lifespan of both the chair and its materials.

Rolf Verspuij, CEO of Ahrend: “It was important to us to develop a product that is not only sustainably produced but also truly circular in design, allowing it to last through multiple life cycles. Extending product lifespan is ultimately the most sustainable way to handle a product.”

The structural components of the Remode are made from Akulon® RePurposed by Envalior. This innovative plastic is strong and offers excellent mechanical performance. Thanks to this material, 78% of the plastic in the Remode is recycled, including 62% from ocean plastic.

Dannie van Osch, Business Development Manager at Envalior: “Akulon RePurposed is a game changer in the industry. Not just for furniture, but for many other products too. Three years ago, I couldn’t have imagined that the core of the Ahrend Remode would be made from it.”

The netweave used for the seat and backrest is a strong, self-supporting fabric that combines style and comfort with sustainability. The fabric is made from 80% recycled polyester and holds the Cradle to Cradle® Certified label.

Anywhere, Anytime
The way and places we work have become increasingly diverse. That’s why Remode is designed for use not only in traditional office environments but practically anywhere. Available in black, grey, and pink, Remode is a great addition to any interior: in the office, shared spaces, or at home.

The Symbolism of the Sneaker
Remode is inspired by sneakers. “I’m fascinated by sneaker design because it brings together ergonomics, comfort, material innovation, and aesthetics,” says Ben van Berkel. “Sneakers symbolise action, health, and performance. They allow us to perform at our best while protecting our bodies. All in all, they’re the most versatile, comfortable, and healthy piece of clothing you can wear. I wanted to create a chair that embodies all these qualities and more.”

This inspiration is reflected in the design details, such as the accent-coloured adjustment knob, flowing lines, colour options, and the netweave seat, which reveals the chair’s mechanism. It also carries through to the chair’s functional properties: ergonomics and high comfort levels.

Remode meets ergonomic standards and protects the body from repetitive strain, encourages good posture, and reduces excessive pressure on the spine. In addition to flexible armrests, the office chair features a synchronised movement mechanism, ensuring the seat and backrest move smoothly together to promote an active posture. The adjustment controls are easily accessible while seated, and all functions can be individually adjusted, making Remode highly adaptable to personal needs.

The seat and backrest can be customised in netweave, full upholstery, or a combination of both, with a strong focus on maximising seating comfort.

Ben van Berkel: “Remode is, of course, primarily an office chair. But it’s so versatile and comfortable that you can use it for just about any activity where you need to sit for extended periods. We wanted to collaborate with Ahrend because they are truly leading the way in forward-thinking design. They base their designs on circular principles, make sustainable material choices, and breathe new life into their classics. Everything is aimed at extending the lifespan of their products.”

Rolf Verspuij on the collaboration with UNStudio: "Ahrend and UNStudio share the same vision of future-oriented design. We are ambitious when it comes to sustainability and want to set a new market standard for circular product design. Ben’s design vision, combined with our expertise in sustainable product development, was the perfect match for this project. I am proud of all our colleagues who worked tirelessly on this project and found a way to truly create the next generation of office chairs.”