- 2026 Pioneer Prize
- From Furniture
Stiletto Armchair
Project Description
The Stiletto Armchair is a testament to the power of observation and the cross-pollination between industries. The seed for this design was planted in the streets of China, where the vertical elegance of thousands of heeled shoes sparked a study in poise and structural daring. This fashion-forward inspiration was then filtered through the lens of mid-century automotive excellence. The result is a piece that exists at the intersection of travel, luxury and contemporary architecture, a sculptural work of art where the form is as compelling as the comfort it provides.
Mirroring the architectural boldness of our previous award-winning Hampi Tables, the Stiletto utilizes geometry to create a sense of motion in a static object. The armchair is defined by its signature legs, meticulously crafted in premium Teak or Ashwood. These supports are engineered to taper and tilt, mimicking the finesse and gravity-defying stance of a stiletto heel. This technical precision provides a clean and light visual profile without compromising structural integrity, standing at a balanced height of 85 cm with a 43 cm seat height designed for ergonomic grace.
The soul of the Stiletto lies in its fusion of materials. Drawing directly from the handcrafted interiors of mid-century luxury cars, the armchair features a trapezoidal backrest and vertical ribbed upholstery. These panels resemble the impeccably finished seats of a vintage grand tourer, blending a nostalgic sense of mid-century luxury with modern high-performance comfort. The transition between the warm, organic grains of the wood and the tactile richness of the ribbed fabric creates a dialogue between different eras of craftsmanship.
The Stiletto challenges the traditional boundaries of the armchair. It is not merely a utility for rest but a refined, ergonomic sculpture that occupies space with the same presence as a piece of fine art. By marrying the racing lines of automotive design with the delicate silhouette of high fashion, the Stiletto Armchair offers a new perspective on international design, one that is rooted in global travel and executed with the precision of master woodworkers. It is a piece where "Fashion Meets Function” inviting the user to experience a seat that is as beautiful to the eye as it is to the body.
Amaresh Anand studied Architecture at the BMS College of Engineering, Bangalore, and joined Khosla Associates in 1998, a few years after its inception. As a partner in the firm, he has been integral to its evolution over the past 25 years…an evolution that culminated in re-shaping the practice into Khosla+Anand, a new entity co-founded by Amaresh and Sandeep in 2023. His eye for design detailing and expertise in construction technologies have enabled interpreting the firm’s vocabulary in new and innovative ways. Amaresh’s career path is littered with interesting experiences and professional acclaim. His passion particularly shines through in projects like DPS Kindergarten School, which won the prestigious Inside World Festival of Interiors award in 2013 and Retreat in the Sahayadris, which was a winner at the WAF House of the Year award in 2017. Amaresh and Sandeep are a powerful team showcased by their being listed among the most influential designers by Architectural Digest for 13 consecutive years (2014-2026), as well as winning the JK Architect of the Year award in 2024. Amaresh has also engaged with the world of product design, creating an exquisite, award-winning furniture collection, along with lighting and fenestration, among others. A passionate DJ and relentless traveller, Amaresh soaks in all he encounters and transmutes his experiences into spectacular design.