February 3, 2026 — The HON Company, a leading manufacturer of office and education solutions, recently released Etch, a new multipurpose seating collection designed to balance function and aesthetic appeal. Designed by longtime HON collaborator Nils Koehn, it combines dynamic design and flexibility to enhance the traditional multipurpose chair. With its sleek, slim silhouette, distinctive perforated shell, and diverse customization options, the collection delivers a versatile solution for both educational and office contexts.
As a new anchor within HON’s award-winning seating portfolio, the statement piece is as practical as it is visually impactful. Inspired by the natural curves of the human form, it prioritizes comfort and a welcoming aesthetic. With multiple base options, stackable frames, and a breathable shell, Etch supports environments where speed, performance, and style are essential.
Etch features HON’s first-ever perforated shell — a bold, distinguishable detail that adds fresh, contemporary character to the collection. Despite its minimalist profile, the chair features elegant curves and extra flex in the shell to provide enhanced ergonomic comfort. A built-in handle at the top of the shell also makes the chair easy to move, underscoring its user-friendly construction and accommodating both collaborative and individual work styles.
Designer Nils Koehn comments:
We wanted to create a soft, human-inspired shape that feels as welcoming as it looks. That is how the perforated shell became the signature element of the Etch collection. It adds visual interest and contributes to overall comfort and airflow. Our goal was a simple, functional and striking appearance, without unnecessary complexity.
Designed as the ultimate “one-stop shop” for multipurpose seating, the collection comes in two versions — a full plastic shell or a seat pad upholstered in fabric for added comfort. Base options include 4-leg, wire, and 5-star in multiple heights, with customizable colors for the 5-star base, glides, and arm caps. Versatile by design, Etch moves effortlessly between settings, helping organizations create spaces that are efficient and adaptable to changing needs.
With an expanded polyshell palette of 14 colors and a broad range of 20 frame paint options, the collection offers limitless combinations to match any design vision. Whether making bold statements or embracing subtle monochromatic pairings, users can personalize Etch to suit any space or mood — while HON streamlines the specification process with a cohesive family of seating solutions, giving designers, educators, and businesses a dependable go-to that marries performance and comfort with style.
For more information about Etch multipurpose chairs, visit HON.
