Our Story

DavidHugh was founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife duo Dr Melody Chen and Dr David Wickett with a shared vision: to create a new category of wellness through the convergence of science and design.

Melody and David started DavidHugh with an algorithm. Three years later, this became the first generation Floatation® technology and its first embodiment, the Elysium chair. Built in their Cambridge workshop, Elysium was produced in three limited edition runs: in 2016, 2018, and 2020, each iteration refining the technology and deepening its impact.

Melody and David, with the support of a growing team of passionate individuals, have continued to invest into Floatation® technology, pushing the boundaries of what was believed possible, exploring its effects on the brain and conscious experience while expanding its potential for human transformation. The next chapter in the DavidHugh story is soon to be written.

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 PhD in Environmental Policy and a lifelong passion for sustainability, Melody strengthens DavidHugh’s identity as a pioneering wellness brand.

Dr. David Wickett

David leads design, research and manufacturing. Originally trained as a furniture designer, his career led him to medical seating design and manufacture, during which time he completed a PhD in Biomedical Engineering. DavidHugh was founded upon this rare synthesis of scientific research and design thinking.