In 2008 we supplied 150 exclusive Solus Chair specifically designed by Foster + Partners for the Cathay Pacific lounges with the aim of creating a private retreat in the midst of what can be a busy public space. Its hourglass form rises from a circular base to create a private space for individual travellers. The chair’s soft leather upholstery is enclosed by a solid, lacquered shell. An exclusive chair designed to function as part of a cloud-like cluster of chairs, as well as providing a secluded space to eat, work or relax, its distinctive curved form was the result of studies into the different ways guests adapted the existing lounge furniture. As well as a wide, comfortable seat, the chair integrates a power supply and a table, which can be used as an informal desk. But not all Solus seats are the same. While most have a white shell, those in The Wing First Class Lounge get the luxe touch with a black lacquered shell. The colour of the Frau Leather® also varies between lounges, and even zones within a lounge – most Solus chairs sport grey leather seating and padding, but some are a richer burgundy or tan. The stand-alone nature of the Solus also lets Cathay Pacific choose how they are implemented in each lounge, such as grouped in a cloud-like cluster or just positioned here and there as space permits. The first challenge was “to strike the right balance between privacy for making a phone call, using your laptop or tablet or just reading a book, but without feeling claustrophobic and enclosed.” Toby Smith, Cathay Pacific’s General Manager Product, recalls. While Foster + Partners fine-tuned the design, Poltrona Frau went to work on the physical aspects of the seat, with an eye towards ergonomics as well as a high-end finish. “It was their idea to put ribbing in the leather back to provide lumbar support” Smith adds. The highest quality materials together with such an exclusive design, transformed the experience for passengers using Hong Kong’s flag carrier.