Tom Dixon is one of those mavericks who ended up in design almost by accident. He began his career as a bass player, and it wasn’t until he discovered the joys of welding that he moved into furniture, with his Kitchen Chair made from frying pans, ladles and steel. However, it was the S-chair, designed in 1988, and manufactured by Cappellini from 1991 to the present, which propelled him into the ranks of internationally recognised designers. Working with Cappellini opened Dixon’s eyes to the opportunities a powerful manufacturing company could offer, and it now produces many of his best-known pieces.

With its distinctive shape and simple but sensuous curving outline, the S-chair is instantly recognisable, and a wonderful example of beautifully integrated form and material. It may not look like the most inviting of furnishings, its appeal lying more in its sculptural lines than in any suggestion of comfort. Nevertheless, it has been featured on the pages of almost every interior design magazine in the world. In its most iconic form, the chair has a metal frame covered in woven marsh straw or wicker. However, it is made in a variety of finishes, including an upholstered version that comes in leather or fabric.

NOTES Range Tom Dixon’s S-Chair is made by Cappellini. Price Available from SCP (020-7749 7393; www.scp.co.uk) in three finishes: leather (£1,816), straw (£1,641) and wicker (£1,243).

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