Richard Schultz Sofas
American, 1926-2021
Many of today’s most popular outdoor furniture designs exist thanks to the talents of designer Richard Schultz. His mid-century modern style introduced unimposing pieces to gardens and outdoor spaces. The airy shapes and timeless appeal of his furniture reflect his motto: “Form follows technique.”
Born Moses Richard Schultz in Lafayette, Indiana, in 1926, he displayed an early talent as an engineer, building steam engines in his family’s basement. Although he possessed an engineer’s mind, Schultz struggled with mathematics, and he dropped out of the Iowa State University mechanical engineering program. He joined the U.S. Navy, working as a radio operator. Following his military service, he enrolled at the Institute of Design in Chicago.
After he graduated in 1950, Schultz traveled to Europe, where he spent the summer sketching. When he returned to the United States in 1951, he applied for a position as a designer at the furniture company Knoll Inc. in New York City. It is said that Florence Knoll, wife of the company’s founder Hans Knoll, hired him on the spot based solely on his sketches.
Schultz’s first assignment was to assist designer Harry Bertoia with the Bertoia Wire Collection at Knoll’s factory in Pennsylvania. Schultz’s 715 Chaise Longue, with its adjustable frame and signature solid wheel, complemented Bertoia’s collection. It was acquired in 1963 by the Museum of Modern Art for its collection of contemporary furniture. Another iconic piece Schultz produced around this time was the Petal Table. Its wooden “petal” tabletop and enameled metal base were inspired by the plant Queen Anne’s lace.
In 1966, one of Schultz’s most esteemed collections, the Leisure Collection (reissued in 1992 as the 1966 Collection), was created when Florence Knoll requested some outdoor furniture for her Florida home that could withstand the salty ocean air. Schultz designed a line of aluminum patio coffee tables and lounge chairs that were not only fashionable and comfortable but would not rust.
In 1972, Knoll laid off its designers, including Schultz, and he started his design studio — Richard Schultz Design — out of a Pennsylvania farmhouse. He enjoyed success with another of his influential pieces, the Paradigm office chair, which he sold to furniture manufacturer Stow & Davis in 1978. In 2012, Knoll acquired Richard Schultz Design and re-released many of his classic works.
Schultz died in 2021. He left a legacy as one of the 20th century’s most celebrated outdoor furniture creators.
On 1stDibs, discover a range of vintage Richard Schultz tables, building and garden elements, seating and more.
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Creator: Richard Schultz
Tan Leather Sofa by Richard Schultz for Knoll
By Knoll, Richard Schultz
Located in Toledo, OH
This 1970 sofa designed by Richard Schultz for Knoll features a leather cushioned front and back, and was created with modular sections that hang from a steel tubular frame. 56" wide...
Category
20th Century Mid-Century Modern Richard Schultz Sofas
Materials
Steel
Tan Leather Sofa by Richard Schultz for Knoll
By Richard Schultz, Knoll
Located in Toledo, OH
This 1970 sofa designed by Richard Schultz for Knoll features a leather cushioned front and back, and was created with modular sections that hang from a steel tubular frame. There ha...
Category
20th Century Mid-Century Modern Richard Schultz Sofas
Materials
Steel
Richard Schultz 1966 Collection Outdoor 3-Seat Sofa
By Richard Schultz
Located in Media, PA
Richard Schultz was commissioned to design the 1966 collection by Florence Knoll who, after retiring to Florida, wanted outdoor furniture that could withstand the corrosive ocean air...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Richard Schultz Sofas
Materials
Aluminum
Rare Richard Schultz Knoll International Daybed / Sofa No. 703
By Knoll, Richard Schultz
Located in Munich, DE
Convertible sofa designed by Richard Schultz for Knoll International. The seat pulls forward and up to create a flat and level bed. Wonderful and classic Mid-Century Modern design up...
Category
1960s German Mid-Century Modern Vintage Richard Schultz Sofas
Materials
Metal, Chrome
Rare No. 704 Richard Schultz Knoll International Daybed / Sofa
By Knoll, Richard Schultz
Located in Munich, DE
Convertible sofa designed by Richard Schultz for Knoll International. The seat pulls forward and up to create a flat and level bed. Wonderful and classic Mid-Century Modern design.
Category
1960s German Mid-Century Modern Vintage Richard Schultz Sofas
Materials
Metal
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Richard Schultz sofas for sale on 1stDibs.
Richard Schultz sofas are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of metal and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Richard Schultz sofas, although beige editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original sofas by Richard Schultz were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider sofas by Vitsoe, Bernhardt, and Metropolitan Furniture. Prices for Richard Schultz sofas can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $2,600 and can go as high as $6,931, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $5,704.