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Our Story
Inception
Our story began in 2002, when Dr David Wickett built the first prototype that would become the foundation of Floatation® technology. For the first time, he experienced the inertia of his entire body free from the influence of gravity — a moment so profound it shaped the course of his life’s work.
The early prototype was limited by the scientific understanding of the time. To unlock its true potential, David moved from design to science and engineering at PhD level, while also pursuing a design career in medical devices. His research led to the development and validation of a novel biomechanical model of human posture. This new ‘digital tool’, combined with countless prototypes, resulted in an innovative mechanism based on pure Planar Motion mechanics — the basis of today’s Floatation® technology.
The early prototype was limited by the scientific understanding of the time. To unlock its true potential, David moved from design to science and engineering at PhD level, while also pursuing a design career in medical devices. His research led to the development and validation of a novel biomechanical model of human posture. This new ‘digital tool’, combined with countless prototypes, resulted in an innovative mechanism based on pure Planar Motion mechanics — the basis of today’s Floatation® technology.
The DavidHugh story begins
Enter Dr Melody Chen. With a background in international business and a PhD in environmental policy, Melody appeared destined for academia, yet her calling was entrepreneurship. In 2013, one year after marrying, David and Melody founded DavidHugh with a vision to create a new category of wellness innovation through the convergence of science and design.
Their first expression of this vision was the Elysium chair, crafted in their Cambridge workshop and produced in three limited editions between 2016 and 2020. With the support of a growing team, they have continued advancing Floatation® technology, exploring its effects on the brain and conscious experience while expanding its potential for human transformation.
Their first expression of this vision was the Elysium chair, crafted in their Cambridge workshop and produced in three limited editions between 2016 and 2020. With the support of a growing team, they have continued advancing Floatation® technology, exploring its effects on the brain and conscious experience while expanding its potential for human transformation.
Dr. Melody Chen
Today, as CEO, Melody leads the company’s financing, strategy, and operations. A champion of Future Proof Design, she ensures that the planet remains central to every creative and commercial decision. With a lifelong passion for sustainability, Melody strengthens DavidHugh’s identity as a pioneering wellness brand.
Dr. David Wickett
David leads design, research, and manufacturing at DavidHugh. He continues to study the effects of Floatation® technology, coordinating neuroscience research in both the UK and China. From the company’s Cambridge studio, he oversees new product development and remains deeply hands-on in the manufacture of the Aiora chair.