Welcome ADA
Back to the present.
Ada brings a breath of retrospectivity to modern life.
Designed by Hanne Willmann, Ada is a soft and contemporary reinterpretation of the classic wooden chair. The upholstery’s design language follows a flowing movement with its gently rounded silhouette. The curve and the subtle drape of the fabric lend it an incomparable softness and corresponding comfort. Set within a sturdy solid wood frame, Ada exudes a calm presence that is immediately felt the moment you sit down. The robust wooden construction is softened by its curves and velvety texture, which is what makes Ada—whether with or without armrests—so urban. This interplay of softness and clarity creates a balanced, timeless presence. The upholstery can be individually selected from leather and fabric collections. The solid wood frame also offers extensive design freedom and can be finished in all wood colors from the Freifrau collection as well as the RAL Classic collection, making it perfect for a custom composition.
Interview with Hanne Willmann
FF: How did the idea for Ada come about?
HW: I wanted to design a wooden chair for Freifrau. The brand is known for exceptionally comfortable, softly upholstered furniture. I wanted to combine precisely this strength with a clean, wooden structure. That’s why I deliberately emphasized the frame and the wooden joints, while at the same time placing great importance on softness, sensuality, and comfort. Ada reinterprets the classic wooden chair and combines craftsmanship with the signature Freifrau feel.
FF: How does Berlin influence your work?
HW: Berlin stands for freedom and openness. This attitude also shapes my design process. I’m initially interested in what might be possible and who a product is intended for. This free-thinking approach flows naturally into my designs.
FF: What detail makes Ada special?
HW: In addition to its comfort, I’m particularly inspired by the way the wooden elements are joined. Two oval cross-sections blend harmoniously into one another. This solution was technically challenging and was developed in close collaboration with the Freifrau carpenters.
FF: How would you incorporate Ada into your home?
HW: My home is a mix of design classics, antique furniture, and prototypes. That’s why I also like vibrant combinations when it comes to furniture. For myself, I chose the light blue version, which we also showcased in Milan and Copenhagen.
FF: What challenges did you face?
HW: Surprisingly few. The design, engineering, woodworking, and upholstery teams worked very closely together. Very little time passed between the initial design in August and the presentation at the trade show in April—that’s something you rarely experience.
FF: How could Ada evolve further?
HW: For me, Ada is the beginning of a family. I’d find even more spacious, lounge-style versions particularly exciting.
FF: What do you appreciate about Freifrau?
HW: The collaboration is trusting, fast, and straightforward. We share a similar understanding of design and quality. I believe you can sense when products are the result of a good collaboration.
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We welcome press inquiries at press@freifrau.com.
Read more: The latest from the design duo Hoffmann Kahleyss Design
Meet the Designer: Hanne Willmann
Hannes’ designs are characterized by a deep passion for small details. Her style is clean and straightforward, though she is also capable of creating softer, more subtle looks. Hannes’ work has won numerous awards, including the 2017 German Design Award. As a lecturer at the Bauhaus in Dessau and the Berlin University of the Arts, she has shared—and continues to share—her ideas with the designers of tomorrow.
Designs for Freifrau Manufaktur: Nana, Ada
