All Photos By Gail
The Nemo Face Chair is an iconic piece of furniture designed by Fabio Novembre in 2010. This sculptural armchair combines functionality with artistic expression, embodying the designer’s flair for merging surrealism with practicality. The features a stylized human face that acts as both a chair and a mask. When seated inside it, the chair conceals the sitter partially, creating a playful element of mystery and anonymity.
Novembre drew inspiration for this design from classical Greek sculpture and theatre masks, aiming to bring a human element into furniture design that is both abstract and intimate. It is manufactured by Driade, a renowned Italian furniture company known for its collaborations with avant-garde designers. Driade focuses on producing furniture that blends art with function, aligning well with Novembre’s vision.
Constructed from Polyethylene plastic, the chairs are lightweight but highly durable, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Polyethylene ensures the chair holds up well against sun and rain, so they are ideal for use on patios, in pool areas, and even public spaces.
The Neo Face Chair is available in several matte or glossy finishes and colors, including neutral tones (white — seen here — black, and grey) and bold hues like red or blue. Some versions also come with a rotating base, adding a dynamic twist to the design.
The Nemo chair plays with the idea of identity and concealment, reflecting Novembre’s interest in storytelling through design. It has been used in galleries, exhibitions, and luxury interiors as both a functional chair and a statement art piece. Because of its dramatic aesthetic, it often finds itself in high-end public spaces, showrooms, or hotels. It appeals to those who value design-driven furniture that challenges conventional forms. These chairs were photographed at NY Now at Javits Center in the Summer of 2023.
