Side by Side

Comfort within arms reach. Industrial Design team ANA (Alex Bott, Nicolas Cyr-Morton, and Asal Reshad) has partnered with the BC Cancer Agency to create a seating system with the flexibility to transform a waiting room with ease. Each chair is designed with asymmetrical armrests, one that rests thin and low, and another that rests high and wide. When paired together, the large armrests connect to create a table for separation, and the small armrests connect to create intimacy.

"The seating system aims to improve the waiting areas of the BC Cancer Agency and Vancouver Cancer Centre. Side by Side is designed to instill a sense of empathy, comfort, and hope in waiting room patients. Using ergonomics, rhythm, materiality, and colour, Side by Side improves the experience of the patients by adding beauty and positive energy to the facility.

The porous surface of the materials used enable staff to minimize cleaning time and reduce the risk of infection for at-risk patients. In addition, the smooth, warm quality of the Thermal Treated Birch frame ensures a comfortable seating experience, while the Baltic Birch backrest and Steel Bracket provide strength and support.
Side by Side has the flexibility to transform a waiting room with ease. Each chair is designed with asymmetrical armrests, one that rests thin and low, and another that rests high and wide. When paired together, the large armrests connect to create a table for separation, and the small armrests connect to create intimacy. With Side by Side comfort is always within arm’s reach."

Photography by Kelsey McDonald