Ami Outdoor Dining Chair
Made by Paola Lenti
Designed by Francesco Rota
Francesco Rota designed the Ami series for Paola Lenti as a study in restraint, where structural precision and handcraft arrive at the same conclusion. The dining chair is offered in two seat heights, accommodating a range of table configurations without compromising its composed silhouette.
The frame is constructed from AISI 316 stainless steel, a marine-grade alloy chosen for its resistance to salt air and sustained exposure. A satin or matt varnish finish in avorio, grafite, or grigio lava gives the base its quiet, considered character.
The fixed backrest is handwoven in a choice of materials, each carrying its own texture and depth:
- Light fabric
- Rope cord
- Aquatech
- Twiggy
- Chain cord
The water-repellent seat cushion is secured with elastic belts, completing a form that balances openness with comfort. Rota's approach to outdoor furniture insists that exposure to the elements is not a compromise but a condition the object is designed to inhabit fully.
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Ami Outdoor Dining Chair
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes AISI 316 stainless steel suitable for outdoor furniture?
AISI 316 is a marine-grade stainless steel alloyed with molybdenum, which gives it superior resistance to chloride corrosion, salt air, and humidity compared to standard 304-grade steel. It is the preferred specification for outdoor and coastal furniture expected to perform over many years without surface degradation.
Can the Ami chair be used in covered and uncovered outdoor spaces?
Yes. The combination of AISI 316 steel, outdoor-rated woven materials such as Aquatech and Twiggy, and water-repellent cushion fabrics makes the Ami chair suitable for both exposed and sheltered environments. Paola Lenti's materials are engineered specifically for sustained outdoor conditions, including UV exposure and moisture.
What weave and fabric options are available for the Ami chair?
The fixed backrest can be specified in light fabric, rope cord, Aquatech, Twiggy, or Chain cord. The seat cushion is available in Aquatech, Luz, Rope T, Brio, Thea, or Wara. Each combination produces a distinct tactile and visual character, allowing the chair to be tailored to a specific design context.
Who is Francesco Rota and what defines his approach to design?
Francesco Rota is a Milan-based designer with a long-standing creative partnership with Paola Lenti. His work is defined by a sensitivity to natural materials, textile craft, and form that feels considered rather than imposed. The Ami series reflects his recurring interest in objects that read as quiet and complete.
Are the two height versions of the Ami chair for different table types?
Yes. The standard dining height is suited to conventional dining tables, while the counter or bar height version is designed for higher surfaces. Specifying the correct height at the outset ensures ergonomic comfort and visual consistency across a dining setting.
