Did You Know? The HÅG Capisco in Star Trek
When you think of iconic sci-fi aesthetics, the interiors of the Star Trek franchise often come to mind: sleek, futuristic, and ahead of their time.
But did you know that one of the standout pieces of furniture featured in multiple Star Trek series and movies was not just a prop but a revolutionary ergonomic chair? Enter the HÅG Capisco, a chair designed by Norwegian industrial designer Peter Opsvik in the 1980s.
A Chair Fit for the Final Frontier
The HÅG Capisco was more than just a piece of furniture—it embodied the futuristic ethos of Star Trek. This chair, with its sculptural and ergonomic design, was created to support sitting in multiple positions: forwards, sideways, and even backwards. Its innovative concept of active sitting made it a perfect fit for the utopian vision of Star Trek’s 24th-century universe.
The Capisco first appeared in Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country and quickly became a staple in the franchise. It was prominently featured in The Next Generation, Voyager, and Enterprise. Its unique saddle shape and minimalist structure seamlessly blended into Starfleet’s advanced interiors. In later years, modern redesigns of the Capisco also made appearances in Star Trek: Discovery, showcasing how the chair’s timeless design continues to evolve.
A Design Ahead of Its Time
Peter Opsvik designed the Capisco in 1980, drawing inspiration from the posture of horseback riders. Unlike conventional chairs, the Capisco encouraged movement and flexibility, aligning perfectly with Star Trek’s forward-thinking ideals. Its focus on ergonomics and adaptability has earned it numerous accolades, making it a favorite in offices, creative studios, and, of course, starships.
While the original design is no longer in production, its legacy endures, both in its contemporary iterations and as a piece of pop culture history. The chair has also received critical acclaim outside the world of sci-fi, earning prestigious awards like the Red Dot Design Award and the Blue Angel Certification for sustainability.
A Design Ahead of Its Time
Peter Opsvik designed the Capisco in 1980, drawing inspiration from the posture of horseback riders. Unlike conventional chairs, the Capisco encouraged movement and flexibility, aligning perfectly with Star Trek’s forward-thinking ideals. Its focus on ergonomics and adaptability has earned it numerous accolades, making it a favorite in offices, creative studios, and, of course, starships.
While the original design is no longer in production, its legacy endures, both in its contemporary iterations and as a piece of pop culture history. The chair has also received critical acclaim outside the world of sci-fi, earning prestigious awards like the Red Dot Design Award and the Blue Angel Certification for sustainability.
