(Shanghai Star)
Updated: 2005-03-14 08:52

When it comes to originality, the chairs have it, at least at Pop Shanghai, located at the newly renovated Bridge 8 complex located on Jianguo Zhonglu overlooking Suzhou Creek. Whether imported from artists like Finnish designer Eero Aarnio or whipped up by owner Avis Woo, the only rule is that everything must be original.

As a creative design studio as well as importer of unusual home furnishings, Pop Shanghai has introduced many novel designs to shoppers with an eye for originality. Owners Woo and Willie Chan are in touch with artists from all over the world to ensure a steady stream of eye-catching items that are unlike anything else in town.

Pony Chair

Eero Aarnio's Pony Chair stands alone when it comes to oohs and aahs from window shoppers. Its rounded lines and shining orange finish signify a harmonious combination of avant-garde style and comfortable applicability that have made Aarnio one of the most important designers in modern time. His works appear in several important museums around the world, such as MoMA (Museum of Modern Art in New York) and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Aarnio's most important works, the Ball chair and Bubble chair can also be found in the shop.

Cheese Chairs

A pair of Cheese Chairs designed by Avis Woo have pride of place in the middle of the shop. The two wooden chairs, shaped like wedges of Swiss cheese with the mandatory holes, stand back-to-back in comfortable affinity. "This design indicates that people should rely on each other sometimes," Chan said, interpreting the juxtaposition of the chairs.