SEATTLE—Hightower has officially introduced Rex to the North American market and is the latest addition to its curated collection of European design partnerships. Launching in partnership with Circuform, Rex embodies the essence of Hightower’s Considered Solutions methodology, balancing sustainability and durability in one elegant, endlessly renewable form.
Rex carries with it an impressive circularity story. Made of 98 percent recycled Econyl, a polyamide-based material utilizing recycled fishing nets and carpets, Rex is component-based, meaning individual parts can be replaced or repaired to extend its life. If the chair cannot be repaired, Rex’s materials are recycled into new chairs, closing the loop with lasting integrity. Produced in European facilities using green energy, Rex reflects efficient craftsmanship with minimal emissions. Rex is also Indoor Advantage Gold certified and holds an EPD.
“Rex represents what happens when insightful, purposeful design methods meet environmental responsibility,” said Natalie Hartkopf, Hightower Chair/Co-Owner. “It’s the perfect example of our Considered Solutions approach, which in part means creating products that don’t just look good or perform well but actively reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable design ecosystem while providing a universal design solution.”
In addition to its environmental attributes, the chair’s tactile, velvet-like matte seat finish prevents sliding, while the slight flex back allows for micro-movements, ensuring both comfort and usability. BIFMA X5.41 tested and rated at 400 lb., Rex combines thoughtful design with resilience. Each piece is backed by a five-year warranty, underscoring Hightower’s confidence in its durability.
Circularity: A Design Responsibility
“Circularity isn’t just a design choice; it’s a design responsibility,” said Shawn Sowers, VP of Design at Hightower. “Rex embodies the next generation of contract furniture: made from waste, powered by green energy, and built to live many lives.”
The chair tells such a story, people are quick to ask where the name Rex comes into play. The piece’s designer, Ineke Hans, likened the design to raising a child, and her human child’s favorite toy at the time was a Tyrannosaurus Rex. “Rex” means “king” or “royal” in Latin, which is a fitting name for a revolutionary chair. Visually, Rex’s unique form provides interest without overwhelming a space (unlike a dinosaur). With 80 possible color combinations—offering matte seats and legs paired with high-gloss backs and arms—the design brings dimensionality and sophistication to a wide range of environments.
Rex offers designers a product that prioritizes sustainability, wellness, and performance equally. Stackable three to four high and constructed for ongoing use, Rex integrates seamlessly into corporate, educational, and hospitality interiors. For more information, imagery, and technical documentation, visit hightower.design.
