Karman

An ultra-light ergonomic chair that combines a flexible frame, proprietary performance textile, and integrated cushioning to provide responsive support with minimal adjustment.

DesignerSteelcase Design Studio

Introduced2023

Chair TypeTask Chair

Overview

About the Karman

Karman represents Steelcase’s modern reinterpretation of the mesh task chair. Officially launched in 2023, it uses a proprietary textile called Intermix suspended within an extremely lightweight flexible frame. Instead of relying on rigid edges and numerous mechanical adjustments, the chair’s seat, back, frame, and textile work together to respond naturally to body weight and movement. Steelcase designed Karman with significantly fewer components than a traditional task chair, giving it both a distinctive visual lightness and a strong sustainability story.

Key features

What Makes It Stand Out

Intermix performance textile

Patented hybrid seat

Integrated seat cushioning

Flexible frame

Weight-activated recline

Minimal manual adjustment

Ultra-light construction

Flexible seat and back edges

Wide range of color combinations

Buying used

What to Look For

Inspect the Intermix textile carefully for pulls, cuts, or unusual stretching. Test the weight-activated recline and height adjustment, and inspect the flexible frame for damage. Because Karman is relatively new, used examples should generally show limited mechanical wear.

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