THE PAPASAN CHAIR: THE JOY AND FLEXIBILITY

Image credit: Pier 1 Imports

According to Wikipedia, the Papasan chair was introduced in the 1950s, but gained more popularity in the 1970s. Most kids of the mid-80s recognize them as the best chairs in the world.

Today, these chairs come in not only the traditional round Papasan, but also a rocker version, swivel chair, and the double Papasan. We at Beyond Taupe recognize the Papasan's flexibility as well as its undeniable comfort.

Although the traditional round Papasan is quite large and requires a certain amount of space, it is still an excellent choice for those who enjoy curling up with a good book on a rainy day. It's equally good for napping, for all but extremely tall or inflexible people. And, as we stated above, kids love them. The full-sized Papasan is good for parents to curl up in with their small children for storytime, or for multiple small children to occupy at once.

The swivel version is not as comfortable as the full-sized version, although it is better suited for watching TV and movies than the round Papasan whose natural position is reclined, where the swivel Papasan is upright. The swivel version is also better adapted to spaces where extra conversation seating is needed. The round Papasan is not suited to this need, due to its size and extra comfort, which can have a lulling effect.

We have not tested the rocker version, but considering the comfort of its non-rocking sibling, we don't doubt it has the same pluses.

The double Papasan has much of the same comfort and flexibility as the single, round Papasan, but also many of the up-sides of the swivel Papasan (minus the swivel, of course). It is equally comfortable, and it can be tilted into a reclined position or pulled into an upright position. It also easily fits two adults or several small children, making it an excellent choice for the family room, play room, or the living room.

Yes, many years after our introduction to the Papasan, we still love it. If possible, we love it even more now that it comes in a variety of shapes and colors. The pads (sold separately from the frame) even come in a "fuzzy" version, for those that want a little more texture in their life.

Check out the wide variety of Papasan shapes, colors, and fabric styles at the nearest Pier 1 Imports store or online at http://www.pier1.com/.