For the 10th edition of Melbourne Design Week, over 100 chairs by Australian designers are on display in an exhibition titled '100 Chairs', curated by Friends & Associates. Selected from an open call, each chair had to be made in Australia and functional for sitting. The designs range from traditional timber dining chairs to experimental pieces, including a chair that transforms into a table, a horse-shaped chair, and one with a satanic theme. The exhibition is held at South Magdalen Laundry, Abbotsford Convent in Melbourne until 24 May 2026.
This exhibition matters because it showcases the breadth and creativity of Australian furniture design, highlighting how everyday objects can be reimagined through material innovation and playful concepts. By imposing constraints of local production and functionality, the show underscores the importance of design as both art and utility, while celebrating Melbourne Design Week's role in fostering contemporary design discourse. The inclusion of iconic designers like Adam Goodrum alongside emerging talents reflects the evolving landscape of Australian design.