![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_hero2-852x479.jpg)
Artek and Bless present fur-covered and marble furniture at Chicago Architecture Biennial
Finnish furniture company Artek has collaborated with fashion label Bless to dress up a collection of seats, which form a decadent lounge at this year's Chicago Architecture Biennial.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial-steve-hall_dezeen_2364_col_0-852x572.jpg)
The team customised Artek's Kiki range, which was originally designed in 1960 by Finnish designer Ilmari Tapiovaara and features in Dezeen's London offices.
The new collection, called N°60 Lobby Conquerors, updates the metal-framed pieces with materials such as marble, fur and concrete.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_col_5-852x568.jpg)
A modified Kiki three-seater bench stands in the centre of the lounge, which occupies the landing of a staircase in the biennial's primary venue, the Chicago Cultural Center.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_col_11-852x568.jpg)
Further single seats referred to as "architurniture units" are scattered throughout the space, which links two further exhibition areas in the venue. These seats feature add-ons including a piece of red marble that extends a two-person bench, while an armless tan chair has an extra-high back and side made of concrete.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_col_20-852x568.jpg)
"Through garments and fragmented architectural add-ons, Artek's iconic Kiki Lounge Chairs are transformed into small architurniture units," said a statement from Artek and Bless.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_col_6-852x1278.jpg)
A range of stools also designed by Tapiovaara are "dressed-up in hairy costumes" with fur and dotted throughout the lounge.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_col_2-852x1278.jpg)
The materials were selected to complement the space's decorative burnt-orange floor tiles and ornamental fittings.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_col_13-852x568.jpg)
Founded in 1935, Artek was led by Alvar and Aino Aalto, Maire Gullichsen and Nils-Gustav Hahl. The company was acquired by Swiss furniture giant Vitra in 2013, and has since relaunched updates of some of its iconic mid-century designs. Bless was set up in 1997 by Desiree Heiss and Ines Kaag, and has stores in Berlin and Paris.
![Artek at the Chicago Architecture Biennial](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2017/09/artek-chicago-architecture-biennial_dezeen_2364_col_26-852x1278.jpg)
N°60 Lobby Conquerors was commissioned for the Chicago Architecture Biennial and is on on display until 7 January 2018.
The biennial's programme includes installations and events across the city, including a variety of performance art pieces and a series of metallic structures hung in Garfield Park Conservatory.
Photography is by Bless, unless otherwise stated.