Hot or Not? The Papasan Chair Reconsidered

Pity the Papasan. The maligned chair had an instant, once. Really, over a decade-long stretch; yet you will barely give one away (we see one or more on the street weekly). A fast perusal of Craigslist New York raises about forty of the chairs, all posted within the past two weeks, virtually all under $50. As our friend Chelsea put use it, they're "the Stair Master of furniture ".

Not so it requires an introduction, but according to Pier 1 Imports, the business that initially imported the chairs from the Philippines, "The Papasan Chair, also referred to as a plate or moon chair, is really a perennially popular selection for those furnishing their first dorm rooms, apartments and other spaces. This chair includes a sturdy rattan frame that sits atop a durable base and a removable decorative cushion. Papasan Chairs have now been a well liked for so many years since they are extremely comfortable, making them a good place to hang out while watching TV, reading, gaming or talking to friends."

We're not arguing for any kind of papasan renaissance here, but wondering if perhaps, in the best context, these chairs could possibly be aesthetically salvaged. There is something McGuire-ish about all that caning. We're picturing a couple with simple, white cushions (no prints; the chair is busy enough on its own, without aid from a pattern.) in an extra but layered space. White floors, plenty of books, not an excessive amount of color, paired with other classic pieces, like Thonet bentwood chairs. We're able to even be sold on painting the wood itself, as Truman Capote did here.