What is the history of the cantilever chair?

The history of the cantilever chair dates back to 1926. It was then that Mart Stam created a sketch of a new idea for a chair on the back of a dinner napkin at a cocktail party. His drawing inspired Ludwig Mies van der Rohe to create his own version of the chair. This led to a legal battle between the two. Other designers, such as Marcel Breuer, began experimenting with the cantilever design, and today, many manufacturers continue to employ the cantilever design in their pieces. Explore a large collection of cantilever chairs on 1stDibs.

What are the characteristics of a cantilever chair?

Here are some characteristics of a cantilever chair: Most feature two front legs and no back legs. The legs bend at the bottom, creating a stable base for the chair. Typically, cantilever chairs feature tubular metal frames and have two arms. However, you can find some armless examples. The seats and backrests often have a boxy appearance and can feature a range of materials, such as wicker, leather, fiberglass, molded plastic or fabric upholstery. Explore a variety of cantilever chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the cantilever chair made of?

A cantilever chair typically features a frame of tubular metal. Most often, tubular steel is used, though tubular chrome has also been used. The seat and back can be crafted of many materials, from rattan to leather or fabric. Browse 1stDibs to find an array of cantilever chairs from top sellers.

How does a cantilever chair work?

How a cantilever chair works comes down to its unique design. Instead of having four legs, a cantilever chair features a single leg or pair of legs in an L shape. The leg or legs attach to the seat in the front and then travel along the floor to provide stability. When a person sits down, their weight becomes distributed across the entire base. On 1stDibs, find a range of cantilever chairs.

What is a cantilever seat?

Cantilever seats are chairs that have a uniquely designed base. Instead of featuring four legs, a cantilever chair has two tubular metal legs in the front. They travel straight down and then bend inward, continuing to the back of the chair where a crossbar joins them. The name of the seat comes from bridge construction and architecture. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cantilever chairs.

What is a cantilever table?

A cantilever table has a horizontal slab that is only given support at one end. It is a small tabletop mounted on a “C”-shaped base. Find a variety of antique and vintage cantilever tables on 1stDibs.

How do I make a cantilever table?

You can make a cantilever table from a variety of materials, though wood may be the simplest. It is best to find a set of building plans to follow, as there are many different styles of cantilever tables. It is vital to build this commonly U-shaped table with a sturdy base to support the top. Shop a variety of cantilever tables from top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a lounge chair and a chair?

The difference between a lounge chair and a chair is specificity. A chair is the general term for furniture typically designed to seat one person at a time, and there are many different kinds of chairs, including dining, accent and office chairs. Lounge chairs are another example of a specific type of chair. They are chairs with a footrest that allows you to elevate your feet while sitting. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of chairs.

How can you tell if a chair is an Eames chair?

To tell if a chair is an Eames chair, take a look under the seat or cushion. Authentic Eames lounge chairs are manufactured by Herman Miller and Vitra. If your Eames chair is a Herman Miller original, look for the legendary manufacturer’s specific logomarks on the product (these logomarks can be found on the company’s official website). There is also the manufacturing label, which is usually found under the seat or cushion (unless a former owner removed it). All of the classic Herman Miller designs are paired with a certificate of authenticity. Some designs may also have a medallion attached to certify their authenticity. You can then check trusted online resources to determine if the information on the label is correct for the style of chair (and more info on its construction is available on the official Eames website). You won’t see screws outside of the wood shells on an authentic Eames lounge chair, and prior to the 1970s, original vintage Eames lounge chairs were made with no more than five layers of plywood (during the 1970s, the chairs were made with seven layers). Find a variety of authentic Eames chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between dining chairs and accent chairs?

The difference between dining chairs and accent chairs is primarily their function. Generally, dining chairs are used in dining areas, where they provide comfortable seating for people to use while eating at tables. You'll normally find accent chairs in seating areas and other parts of the home, where users can sit on them while they read, make conversation or enjoy other relaxing activities. Shop a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between an occasional chair and an accent chair?

The difference between an occasional chair and an accent chair comes down to usage. An occasional chair is a decorative chair that is placed in a room for its look rather than to function as an everyday seating solution. As a result, occasional chairs may be used infrequently. An accent chair is any decorative chair placed in a seating area. They can be used only occasionally or on a daily basis. Explore a wide variety of chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a lounge chair and an accent chair?

The difference between a lounge chair and an accent chair pertains to purpose. Typically, a lounge chair is wider and deeper than an accent chair and tends to have a thicker cushion. These stylistic differences owe to the fact that lounge chairs are meant to provide luxurious, comfortable seating for long periods of time, while accent chairs are more often intended to add visual appeal to a living room. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of living room chairs.

What is the difference between a computer chair and an office chair?

The difference between a computer chair and an office chair is generally the number of features they have. Computer chairs tend to be more basic pieces with adjustable seats. Office chairs may have more padding, multiple points of adjustment and decorative details, such as nailhead trim. Keep in mind that some people do use the terms office chair and computer chair interchangeably. Shop an assortment of office chairs and computer chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a Morris chair and a Stickley chair?

The difference between a Morris chair and a Stickley chair comes down to origins and characteristics. A Morris chair gets its name from William Morris, one of the founders of the British company Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. During the late 1860s, the company began producing the Morris chair, which has a reclining seat back and an intricately carved wood frame. This design spread to the U.S., where it was seen by Gustav Stickley. Drawing inspiration from it, Stickley produced the Stickley chair in 1904. Like the Morris chair, the piece has a reclining back but a simpler slatted frame that aligns with the American Arts and Crafts design style. Due to its origins, some people call the Stickley chair the Stickley Morris chair or the Mission Morris chair. Explore a collection of Stickley chairs and Morris chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a task chair and an executive chair?

The difference between a task chair and an executive chair is that most task chairs will have adjustable seat height as well as swivel and tilt functions. Task chairs are lightweight and mobile but are not intended for long periods of continuous use. Executive chairs are meant to be more comfortable and are usually designed with high backrests. An executive chair is intended for long periods of use compared to a task chair, which in some cases may be armless and isn’t going to provide the premium comfort that can be expected from an executive chair. Task chairs are also typically less expensive than executive chairs. Find a variety of antique, modern and contemporary task chairs and executive chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between an ergonomic chair and an office chair?

The difference between an ergonomic chair and an office chair is the specificity of the term. Any chair designed for use at a work desk may be called an office chair. On the other hand, an ergonomic chair is designed to complement the contours of the human body to deliver optimal support and a high level of comfort. Although you'll often see the term ergonomic used to describe office chairs, other types of chairs, such as dining and lounge chairs, can also feature ergonomic designs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of office chairs.

Why is a club chair called a club chair?

A club chair is called a club chair because the accent chairs became popular in the interior décor of gentleman's clubs in France. The original name for the club chair is “fauteuil confortable," which translates to "comfortable chair." You'll find a collection of club chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between an accent chair and a dining chair?

The difference between an accent chair and a dining chair comes down to function and design. An accent chair usually goes in a seating area, and makers craft them with comfort in mind. As a result, most accent chairs feature cushioning and upholstery and are characterized by generous proportions. The purpose of a dining chair is to provide a place to sit while enjoying a meal. Usually, dining chairs are lighter and smaller than accent chairs for easy maneuvering. While they may have padded seats and backrests, dining chairs generally aren't as abundantly cushioned as accent chairs. Explore a large selection of chairs on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair?

The difference between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair can be easily explained in that garden armchairs are called Adirondack in the USA and Muskoka in Canada. While they both have short legs, bent reclining seats, wide armrests and high backs, the Adirondack chair is 2 inches higher from the floor and 2 inches wider. The Adirondack chair uses a flat yoke at the back while Muskoka might use curved yokes. Shop for an Adirondack chair or Muskoka chair on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair?

The difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair is style. A side chair is a very commonly used dining chair. The form of a side chair may vary, but the constant is the lack of armrests to keep hands free for eating and to save space at the table. A Parsons chair is a type of side chair that features upholstery on the seat and back. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

The Cantilever Chair

Stuhl Chair

1968 Chair

Bauhaus Cantilevered Chair

Ultramarine Blue

Mart Stam Tubular Chrome And Leather Chairs

Ernst Moeckl Kangaroo

Man Chair

Mid Century Modern Z Chair

Maple Cantilever Armchair by Phaedo

Located in Geneve, CH

Maple Cantilever armchair by Phaedo Dimensions: H 35” x D 18-1/2” x W 20-3/4” inches Materials: Bleached Hard Maple The Cantilever chair is a true blend of form and function, t...

Category

2010s American Modern Armchairs

Materials

Maple

Walnut Cantilever Armchair by Phaedo

$2,202 / item

Walnut Cantilever Armchair by Phaedo

Located in Geneve, CH

Materials: oxidized black walnut. The Cantilever chair is a true blend of form and function, the shelf below provides a practical means of storage without encumbering the overall...

Category

2010s American Modern Armchairs

Materials

Walnut

$884 / item

S 53 SPF Cantilever Armchair

Located in New York, NY

Range S 55 A comfortable and elegant all-rounder, based on the construction principle of the cantilever chair. With its one-piece seat shell it offers the highest possible comfort, ...

Category

2010s German Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Fabric

Mid-Century White Leather & Chrome Cantilever Armchair, MatteoGrassi Style

$550

Mid-Century White Leather & Chrome Cantilever Armchair, MatteoGrassi Style

By Mart Stam

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Chrome hardware connects the armrest assembly to the continuous cantilever frame at visible junction points. The cantilevered chair form traces directly to Marcel Breuer's Bauhaus e...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Chrome

Thonet S 60 Cantilever Black Leather Armchair by Glen Oliver Löw in STOCK

$1,295Sale Price|60% Off

Customizable Gebruder T S 33 Cantilever Chair by Mart Stam

By Mart Stam

Located in New York, NY

, wrote artist Kurt Schwitters in 1927 after seeing the first cantilever chairs in furniture history. The two chairs S 33 and S 34 caused a sensation at the Werkbund exhibit at the W...

Category

2010s German Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Bauhaus Gabo Adjustable Cantilever Leather Chair by FSM

$7,398 / item

+ 15 more

Bauhaus Gabo Adjustable Cantilever Leather Chair by FSM

By De Sede, Markus Hartmann

Located in Brooklyn, NY

FSM Gabo chair by de Sede. Gabo is multi-faceted. Take the cantilever chair, sleek and stylish with its classic round-tube profile, or the elegant square-tube frame chair.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Modern Armchairs

Materials

Leather

Recent Sales

Cantilever Arm Chair by Phaedo

Unavailable

H 35 in W 20 in D 18 in

Cantilever Arm Chair by Phaedo

By Phaedo

Located in London, GB

The Cantilever Chair is a true blend of form and function, the shelf below provides a practical means of storage without encumbering the overall balance of the piece.

Category

2010s American Modern Chairs

Materials

Ash, Cherry, Oak, Walnut

Bleached Cantilever Arm Chair by Phaedo

Unavailable

H 35 in W 20 in D 18 in

Bleached Cantilever Arm Chair by Phaedo

By Phaedo

Located in London, GB

The Cantilever Chair is a true blend of form and function, the shelf below provides a practical means of storage without encumbering the overall balance of the piece.

Category

2010s American Modern Chairs

Fabric, Foam

Cantilevered Brass Club Chairs in the Style of Milo Baughman

Unavailable

H 30 in W 26 in D 26 in

Cantilevered Brass Club Chairs in the Style of Milo Baughman

By Milo Baughman

Located in Houston, TX

Beautifully sculptured brass chairs with fluted arm rests and a central bar bracing the backrest. Recently upholstered in Brentano teal and taupe cut velvet zig zags. These chairs ar...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Cantilevered 'Shadow Chair' in Mirror-Polished Stainless Steel

Unavailable

H 33.47 in W 17.72 in D 23.63 in

Cantilevered 'Shadow Chair' in Mirror-Polished Stainless Steel

By Duffy London

Located in London, GB

Playing on trompe l'oeil and a classic cantilever design, the Shadow Chair is a playful trick of the eye piece by Duffy London; the secret is that the shadow is actually part of the ...

Category

2010s British Modern Chairs

Materials

Stainless Steel

Pair of Cantilever chrome and Wicker Chairs in the style of Mies Van der Roye

Unavailable

H 34.06 in W 19.3 in D 25.99 in

Pair of Cantilever chrome and Wicker Chairs in the style of Mies Van der Roye

By Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Located in Brussels , BE

Pair of wicker cantilever chairs in the style of german architect Ludwig Mies vand der Roher, from the 1950's.

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Bauhaus Gabo Adjustable Cantilever Leather Chair by FSM

Unavailable

H 34.5 in W 23 in D 21 in

Mid-Century Modern Chrome Glam Dining Chairs Geometric Pop Art Style Upholstery

Located in Marietta, GA

Italian style glam Mid-Century Modern dining chairs. Unique set of four dining chairs with curved chrome flat bar arms and a sort of cantilever seat.

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Set of 4 Panton Chairs in Black by Verner Panton for Herman Miller

Unavailable

H 33 in W 19.5 in D 22 in

Set of 4 Panton Chairs in Black by Verner Panton for Herman Miller

By Verner Panton, Herman Miller

Located in TORONTO, CA

It was the first all-plastic chair made in one piece with a cantilever design.

Category

Late 20th Century American Post-Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Plastic, Polystyrene

Unavailable

H 34.25 in W 23.25 in D 22.5 in

Dark Grey Sito 247/55 Cantilever Armchair by Wiege for Wilkhahn, Germany

By Wiege, Wilkhahn

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The Sito range is a more sophisticated re-interpretation of the traditional steel tube cantilever chair. The design is based on bridge construction: the load-bearing component compri...

Category

2010s German Armchairs

Black Leather Sito 247/55 Cantilever Armchair by Wiege for Wilkhahn, Germany

Unavailable

H 34.25 in W 23.25 in D 22.5 in

Black Leather Sito 247/55 Cantilever Armchair by Wiege for Wilkhahn, Germany

By Wiege, Wilkhahn

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The Sito range is a more sophisticated re-interpretation of the traditional steel tube cantilever chair. The design is based on bridge construction the load-bearing component compris...

Category

2010s German Armchairs

Materials

Aluminum

Panton Junior Chair by Verner Panton Vitra 1967, Bright Orange Children's Chair

Unavailable

H 24.7 in Dm 14.8 in

Panton Junior Chair by Verner Panton Vitra 1967, Bright Orange Children's Chair

By Verner Panton, Vitra

Located in Brondby, Copenhagen

In 1963 Panton came across German manufacturer Vitra, and together they developed the chair for mass production. The first cantilevered stacking chair was produced in 1967 - the Pant...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Children's Furniture

Materials

Plastic

H 31.11 in W 19.69 in D 25.6 in

Set of Four MR10 Cantilever Chairs by L. Mies Van der Rohe for Knoll Int.

By Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Located in Vlimmeren, BE

Mies Van der Rohe first showed his cantilever chair in 1927 at the Weißenhofsiedlung.

Materials

Leather

Gebruder T S 182 PST Chair

$295Sale Price|72% Off

H 32.68 in W 21.26 in D 21.66 in

Gebruder T S 182 PST Chair

Located in New York, NY

A good piece of furniture lives from its versatility. That is why we rely on functional designs that can be used in a variety of application concepts

Category

2010s German Chairs

Materials

Steel

From $2,061 / item

+ 7 more

H 31.5 in W 21.26 in D 20.87 in

Opinion Ciatti Mammamia Non Stackable Chair with Armrests

By Opinion Ciatti, Marcello Zilliani

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mammamia chair with armrest, made with die-cast aluminum shell and steel structure. For indoor use. Non-stackable. Available in gold structure with white, beige, taupe, green, or bla...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Metal

$257 / item

H 31.5 in W 17.33 in D 17.33 in

Bauhaus Design Chairs in Chrome Tubular Steel and Brown Faux Leather, 1980s

Located in Zagreb, HR

Italian modernist, Bauhaus design tubular chrome and brown faux leather stackable dining or living room chairs. Italian design of the 1980s. Price is per piece. In excellent condit...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Bauhaus Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Marcel Breuer B34 Tubular Armchair 1930s

$2,790

H 33.47 in W 18.51 in D 17.72 in

Marcel Breuer B34 Tubular Armchair 1930s

By Marcel Breuer

Located in Čelinac, BA

Marcel Breuer B34 Armchair 1930s

Category

Vintage 1930s Austrian Bauhaus Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Marcel Breuer Cesca Chair with Cane Seat and Back, circa 1960

$1,372

H 31.5 in W 17.92 in D 19.69 in

Marcel Breuer Cesca Chair with Cane Seat and Back, circa 1960

By Marcel Breuer

Located in Barcelona, ES

Cesca chair designed by Marcel Breuer, circa 1960. This example was produced by an unknown manufacturer and features the iconic cantilevered tubular chrome frame with a black lacquer...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Chrome

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$4,804 / item

H 35.44 in W 35.44 in D 31.5 in

The Howard, Custom Made Belgian Linen Armchair

Located in Jesteburg, DE

Introducing the home collection. A small selection of timeless Flemish designs made by hand for us in a small third generation workshop in Belgium. Has been used by many influent...

Category

2010s Belgian Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Linen

Contemporary Coffee Table 'Naked' by Norr11, Smoke Glass

$915 / item

H 11.82 in Dm 20.87 in

Contemporary Coffee Table 'Naked' by Norr11, Smoke Glass

By Kristian Sofus Hansen, Norr11, Tommy Hyldahl

Located in Paris, IDF

Contemporary Coffee Table "Naked" by Norr11 designed by Kristian Sofus Hansen & Tommy Hyldahl Model shown on the main picture : Naked Coffee Table, Black Oak and Smoke Glass Cu...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cock...

Materials

Blown Glass, Oak

$3,200

H 77.75 in W 44 in D 18.5 in

Mid-19th Century French Louis Philippe Period Book Matched Walnut Bookcase

Located in Fayetteville, AR

This nineteenth century French Louis Philippe period bookcase or vitrine features a solid walnut facade with simple, handsome lines and two doors inset with glass. A panel at the cro...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century French Louis Philippe Bookcases

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Carlo Scarpa for Bernini '795' Library in Metal and Walnut

$27,500

H 98.43 in W 81.11 in D 16.34 in

Carlo Scarpa for Bernini '795' Library in Metal and Walnut

By Carlo Scarpa, Bernini

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Carlo Scarpa for Bernini, library or wall unit, model '795', walnut, metal, Italy, design 1935, edition made in 1980s Stunning library designed by Carlo Scarpa for Bernini. This wal...

Category

Vintage 1930s Italian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Jacob Kielland-Brandt Dining Chair in Solid Pine

$375

H 29.53 in W 18.12 in D 18.51 in

Jacob Kielland-Brandt Dining Chair in Solid Pine

By Jacob Kielland-Brandt

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Jacob Kielland-Brandt, dining chair, solid pine, Denmark, 1960s This remarkable chair is designed by Danish designer Jacob Kielland-Brandt in the 1960s. It has a strong expression, ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Pine

Chrome and Clear Lucite Plia Folding Chair by Anonima Castelli, 1970s

$451 / item

H 29.93 in W 20.08 in D 20.48 in

Chrome and Clear Lucite Plia Folding Chair by Anonima Castelli, 1970s

By Giancarlo Piretti, Anonima Castelli

Located in Roma, IT

Original and signed "Plia" folding chairs in clear lucite with chrome frame. This fantastic chair was designed by Giancarlo Piretti for Castelli in 1967. These folding chairs are m...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Aluminum, Enamel

The Albert, Custom Made Belgian Linen Armchair

$4,804 / item

H 31.5 in W 33.47 in D 43.31 in

The Albert, Custom Made Belgian Linen Armchair

Located in Jesteburg, DE

Introducing the home collection. A small selection of timeless Flemish designs made by hand for us in a small third generation workshop in Belgium. Has been used by many influent...

Category

2010s Belgian Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Linen

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The Cantilever Chair For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic the cantilever chair available at 1stDibs. A the cantilever chair — often made from metal, chrome and fabric — can elevate any home. Your living room may not be complete without a the cantilever chair — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A the cantilever chair is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco and Industrial styles are sought with frequency. Milo Baughman, Cal-Style and Carsons each produced at least one beautiful the cantilever chair that is worth considering.

How Much is a The Cantilever Chair?

The average selling price for a the cantilever chair at 1stDibs is $2,250, while they’re typically $300 on the low end and $10,000 for the highest priced.

Finding the Right Seating for You

With entire areas of our homes reserved for “sitting rooms,” the value of quality antique and vintage seating cannot be overstated.

Fortunately, the design of side chairs, armchairs and other lounge furniture — since what were, quite literally, the early perches of our ancestors — has evolved considerably.

Among the earliest standard seating furniture were stools. Egyptian stools, for example, designed for one person with no seat back, were x-shaped and typically folded to be tucked away. These rudimentary chairs informed the design of Greek and Roman stools, all of which were a long way from Sori Yanagi's Butterfly stool or Alvar Aalto's Stool 60. In the 18th century and earlier, seats with backs and armrests were largely reserved for high nobility.

The seating of today is more inclusive but the style and placement of chairs can still make a statement. Antique desk chairs and armchairs designed in the style of Louis XV, which eventually included painted furniture and were often made of rare woods, feature prominently curved legs as well as Chinese themes and varied ornaments. Much like the thrones of fairy tales and the regency, elegant lounges crafted in the Louis XV style convey wealth and prestige. In the kitchen, the dining chair placed at the head of the table is typically reserved for the head of the household or a revered guest.

Of course, with luxurious vintage or antique furnishings, every chair can seem like the best seat in the house. Whether your preference is stretching out on a plush sofa, such as the Serpentine, designed by Vladimir Kagan, or cozying up in a vintage wingback chair, there is likely to be a comfy classic or contemporary gem for you on 1stDibs.

With respect to the latest obsessions in design, cane seating has been cropping up everywhere, from sleek armchairs to lounge chairs, while bouclé fabric, a staple of modern furniture design, can be seen in mid-century modern, Scandinavian modern and Hollywood Regency furniture styles.

Admirers of the sophisticated craftsmanship and dark woods frequently associated with mid-century modern seating can find timeless furnishings in our expansive collection of lounge chairs, dining chairs and other items — whether they’re vintage editions or alluring official reproductions of iconic designs from the likes of Hans Wegner or from Charles and Ray Eames. Shop our inventory of Egg chairs, designed in 1958 by Arne Jacobsen, the Florence Knoll lounge chair and more.

No matter your style, the collection of unique chairs, sofas and other seating on 1stDibs is surely worthy of a standing ovation.

Questions About The Cantilever Chair

What is the history of the cantilever chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 6, 2024
The history of the cantilever chair dates back to 1926. It was then that Mart Stam created a sketch of a new idea for a chair on the back of a dinner napkin at a cocktail party. His drawing inspired Ludwig Mies van der Rohe to create his own version of the chair. This led to a legal battle between the two. Other designers, such as Marcel Breuer, began experimenting with the cantilever design, and today, many manufacturers continue to employ the cantilever design in their pieces. Explore a large collection of cantilever chairs on 1stDibs.
What are the characteristics of a cantilever chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 6, 2024
Here are some characteristics of a cantilever chair: Most feature two front legs and no back legs. The legs bend at the bottom, creating a stable base for the chair. Typically, cantilever chairs feature tubular metal frames and have two arms. However, you can find some armless examples. The seats and backrests often have a boxy appearance and can feature a range of materials, such as wicker, leather, fiberglass, molded plastic or fabric upholstery. Explore a variety of cantilever chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the cantilever chair made of?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A cantilever chair typically features a frame of tubular metal. Most often, tubular steel is used, though tubular chrome has also been used. The seat and back can be crafted of many materials, from rattan to leather or fabric. Browse 1stDibs to find an array of cantilever chairs from top sellers.
How does a cantilever chair work?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
How a cantilever chair works comes down to its unique design. Instead of having four legs, a cantilever chair features a single leg or pair of legs in an L shape. The leg or legs attach to the seat in the front and then travel along the floor to provide stability. When a person sits down, their weight becomes distributed across the entire base. On 1stDibs, find a range of cantilever chairs.
What is a cantilever seat?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Cantilever seats are chairs that have a uniquely designed base. Instead of featuring four legs, a cantilever chair has two tubular metal legs in the front. They travel straight down and then bend inward, continuing to the back of the chair where a crossbar joins them. The name of the seat comes from bridge construction and architecture. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of cantilever chairs.
What is a cantilever table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
A cantilever table has a horizontal slab that is only given support at one end. It is a small tabletop mounted on a “C”-shaped base. Find a variety of antique and vintage cantilever tables on 1stDibs.
How do I make a cantilever table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
You can make a cantilever table from a variety of materials, though wood may be the simplest. It is best to find a set of building plans to follow, as there are many different styles of cantilever tables. It is vital to build this commonly U-shaped table with a sturdy base to support the top. Shop a variety of cantilever tables from top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a lounge chair and a chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
The difference between a lounge chair and a chair is specificity. A chair is the general term for furniture typically designed to seat one person at a time, and there are many different kinds of chairs, including dining, accent and office chairs. Lounge chairs are another example of a specific type of chair. They are chairs with a footrest that allows you to elevate your feet while sitting. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of chairs.
How can you tell if a chair is an Eames chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
To tell if a chair is an Eames chair, take a look under the seat or cushion. Authentic Eames lounge chairs are manufactured by Herman Miller and Vitra. If your Eames chair is a Herman Miller original, look for the legendary manufacturer’s specific logomarks on the product (these logomarks can be found on the company’s official website). There is also the manufacturing label, which is usually found under the seat or cushion (unless a former owner removed it). All of the classic Herman Miller designs are paired with a certificate of authenticity. Some designs may also have a medallion attached to certify their authenticity. You can then check trusted online resources to determine if the information on the label is correct for the style of chair (and more info on its construction is available on the official Eames website). You won’t see screws outside of the wood shells on an authentic Eames lounge chair, and prior to the 1970s, original vintage Eames lounge chairs were made with no more than five layers of plywood (during the 1970s, the chairs were made with seven layers). Find a variety of authentic Eames chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between dining chairs and accent chairs?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between dining chairs and accent chairs is primarily their function. Generally, dining chairs are used in dining areas, where they provide comfortable seating for people to use while eating at tables. You'll normally find accent chairs in seating areas and other parts of the home, where users can sit on them while they read, make conversation or enjoy other relaxing activities. Shop a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between an occasional chair and an accent chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
The difference between an occasional chair and an accent chair comes down to usage. An occasional chair is a decorative chair that is placed in a room for its look rather than to function as an everyday seating solution. As a result, occasional chairs may be used infrequently. An accent chair is any decorative chair placed in a seating area. They can be used only occasionally or on a daily basis. Explore a wide variety of chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a lounge chair and an accent chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
The difference between a lounge chair and an accent chair pertains to purpose. Typically, a lounge chair is wider and deeper than an accent chair and tends to have a thicker cushion. These stylistic differences owe to the fact that lounge chairs are meant to provide luxurious, comfortable seating for long periods of time, while accent chairs are more often intended to add visual appeal to a living room. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of living room chairs.
What is the difference between a computer chair and an office chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between a computer chair and an office chair is generally the number of features they have. Computer chairs tend to be more basic pieces with adjustable seats. Office chairs may have more padding, multiple points of adjustment and decorative details, such as nailhead trim. Keep in mind that some people do use the terms office chair and computer chair interchangeably. Shop an assortment of office chairs and computer chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a Morris chair and a Stickley chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between a Morris chair and a Stickley chair comes down to origins and characteristics. A Morris chair gets its name from William Morris, one of the founders of the British company Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. During the late 1860s, the company began producing the Morris chair, which has a reclining seat back and an intricately carved wood frame. This design spread to the U.S., where it was seen by Gustav Stickley. Drawing inspiration from it, Stickley produced the Stickley chair in 1904. Like the Morris chair, the piece has a reclining back but a simpler slatted frame that aligns with the American Arts and Crafts design style. Due to its origins, some people call the Stickley chair the Stickley Morris chair or the Mission Morris chair. Explore a collection of Stickley chairs and Morris chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a task chair and an executive chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
The difference between a task chair and an executive chair is that most task chairs will have adjustable seat height as well as swivel and tilt functions. Task chairs are lightweight and mobile but are not intended for long periods of continuous use. Executive chairs are meant to be more comfortable and are usually designed with high backrests. An executive chair is intended for long periods of use compared to a task chair, which in some cases may be armless and isn’t going to provide the premium comfort that can be expected from an executive chair. Task chairs are also typically less expensive than executive chairs. Find a variety of antique, modern and contemporary task chairs and executive chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between an ergonomic chair and an office chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between an ergonomic chair and an office chair is the specificity of the term. Any chair designed for use at a work desk may be called an office chair. On the other hand, an ergonomic chair is designed to complement the contours of the human body to deliver optimal support and a high level of comfort. Although you'll often see the term ergonomic used to describe office chairs, other types of chairs, such as dining and lounge chairs, can also feature ergonomic designs. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of office chairs.
Why is a club chair called a club chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
A club chair is called a club chair because the accent chairs became popular in the interior décor of gentleman's clubs in France. The original name for the club chair is “fauteuil confortable," which translates to "comfortable chair." You'll find a collection of club chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between an accent chair and a dining chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023
The difference between an accent chair and a dining chair comes down to function and design. An accent chair usually goes in a seating area, and makers craft them with comfort in mind. As a result, most accent chairs feature cushioning and upholstery and are characterized by generous proportions. The purpose of a dining chair is to provide a place to sit while enjoying a meal. Usually, dining chairs are lighter and smaller than accent chairs for easy maneuvering. While they may have padded seats and backrests, dining chairs generally aren't as abundantly cushioned as accent chairs. Explore a large selection of chairs on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021
The difference between an Adirondack chair and a Muskoka chair can be easily explained in that garden armchairs are called Adirondack in the USA and Muskoka in Canada. While they both have short legs, bent reclining seats, wide armrests and high backs, the Adirondack chair is 2 inches higher from the floor and 2 inches wider. The Adirondack chair uses a flat yoke at the back while Muskoka might use curved yokes. Shop for an Adirondack chair or Muskoka chair on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
The difference between a side chair and a Parsons chair is style. A side chair is a very commonly used dining chair. The form of a side chair may vary, but the constant is the lack of armrests to keep hands free for eating and to save space at the table. A Parsons chair is a type of side chair that features upholstery on the seat and back. Shop a selection of dining chairs on 1stDibs.

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