MCM fallout. We've always loved the classic design of Harry Bertoia's sidechair. It's been on our wish-list for years — especially in white with colored seatpads. Lately though, we've become uninspired by them. Every time we open a magazine (or even a catalog), there they are. Perhaps it's a bit of the Ugg Boot Dilemna. When everyone has one—it's not that special anymore. It's a classic and it probably helps that they aren't terribly expensive, slightly-scuffed originals often pop up on ebay or AT: Scavenger for hundreds less than the price of reproductions from Knoll sold at DWR and UnicaHome. For our own sanity (we need something else to covet), we started to prepare a list of possible replacements for the beloved Bertoia. ...

We decided these three factors were important characteristics of a worthy chair:

• Modern
• Strong & Stable
• Light-looking (light passes through)

These Eames Wire Chairs are too similar...

These Clipt Chairs by Jeff Miller are on the right track. They appear lightweight and are very sleek. We love the funtionality of the "clip". Like the Bertoia, the engineering is presented as an attractive design element.

With the gridded back, the Nic Chair by Werner Aisslinger is a good alternative.

Chair One by Konstantin Grcic is our favorite so far. It is lightweight (aluminum), and very modern looking thanks to the unique structural engineering. In addition to be being suitable for both indoors and out, it is available with a variety of pads and upholstery options, like the Bertoia.

Any other suggestions?