Product Design
Marta Wilczewska
Sella

Project
The “Sella” armchair was developed for older adults, approximately aged 55 and above, as a response to the growing needs of an ageing society. It combines an ergonomically shaped seat and backrest, an integrated footrest, and discreet sensory elements positioned beneath the armrests.
The design aimed to avoid the medical and sterile aesthetic often associated with supportive furniture, instead creating a warm object with a homely character. Its form is defined by soft, organic geometries and a restrained material palette, with ash wood used as the primary structural material.
The sensory details are designed to encourage curiosity and enrich the user’s tactile experience. Together with the calm visual language, they help create a pleasant and soothing environment that reduces visual stimulation and enhances comfort.
The project is based on research, including interviews with older adults. The armchair is adapted to compact living environments, as the integrated footrest eliminates the need for additional elements and ensures spatial efficiency without compromising comfort. It is intended for use in private homes and care facilities, including homes for older people.
Year
2025
Mentors and collaborators
Olga Kiedrowicz- Świtalska, PhD (mentor)
Jarosław Hulbój, PhD (co-mentor)
Institution
Academy of Art in Szczecin, Faculty of Design
Author
Marta Wilczewska holds a bachelor’s degree in Product Design from the Academy of Art in Szczecin, where she is currently completing the master’s programme “Design for Living Systems”.
Her practice focuses on socially responsible and inclusive design. She particularly values interdisciplinary collaboration with specialists from different fields, which enables her to gain new knowledge and develop a broader understanding of users’ needs.
Through her projects, she seeks to address real challenges, with particular attention to older people and children. Her work is guided by the belief that considered, often small interventions can significantly improve everyday experiences.
Hands-on engagement with materials and the continuous exploration of production processes and material technologies form an important part of her practice. Her recent work also explores the creative potential of weaving through practical work on a loom.




