Potter-turned-home-design guru Jonathan Adler is a man with a peripatetic mind, inspired in equal parts, it seems, by classic modern design, Surrealism and pop culture.
Although his namesake company has expanded into a mini empire touching just about every aspect of modern living — chairs and ice buckets, wallpaper and menorahs, chandeliers and rugs — made in myriad materials, Adler still creates almost every object in clay first. His guiding principle is a simple one: “I make the stuff I want to surround myself with, and I surround myself with it.”
Adler grew up in a New Jersey farm town. His grandfather became a local judge, and his father returned home after graduating from the University of Chicago. “My pop was a brilliantly talented artist. At one point, he had to decide whether to become an artist or a —,” he pauses, searching for the right word, “person.” His father became a lawyer but spent all his free time in his studio, “making art, unencumbered by the need to make money from it. It was a totally pure pursuit.” Adler’s mother, who had worked at Vogue and moved to the rural town reluctantly, was also creative, and both parents encouraged their three children’s creativity.
When he was 12, Adler went to sleepaway camp, where he threw his first pot. “And it was on,” he says. His parents bought him a pottery wheel, and he spent the remainder of his adolescence elbow-deep in clay. Even while majoring in semiotics and art history at Brown University, he hung out at the nearby Rhode Island School of Design, making pots.
Adler moved to New York City, worked briefly in entertainment, and in 1993 returned to his true love, throwing pots (in exchange for teaching classes) at a Manhattan studio called Mud Sweat & Tears. One day, at Balducci’s food market, he ran into Bill Sofield, an old friend who had recently cofounded, with Thomas O’Brien, the now-legendary Aero Studios, a design firm and shop. Sofield paid a studio visit and promptly gave him an order. Then, another friend introduced Adler to a buyer at Barneys New York, who also wrote an order.
For about three years after Adler began devoting himself to ceramics full-time. Despite the street cred of both Aero and Barneys, he also wasn’t really making enough money to live on. Then, in 1997, he teamed with Aid to Artisans, a nonprofit aimed at creating economic opportunity for skilled artisans in developing countries, and traveled to Peru to hire potters who could follow his designs, thus increasing production.
Adler’s first store opened in 1998, in the Soho shopping mecca in Manhattan. He now operates about two dozen shops, as far-flung as London and Bangkok. During Adler’s trip to Peru, he connected not only with potters but also with several talented weavers and decided to branch out into textiles. Other categories followed, leading him to travel the world in search of artisans who could execute his endless supply of ideas. In India, Adler found a man who’s expert at beadwork; he has his limed furniture made in Indonesia, his honey-colored wood pieces in Vietnam.
After a friend asked him to decorate her house, Adler expanded to interior design, taking on hotels as well as private residences — projects for which he remains “agnostic,” using pieces by other designers. “I really try to get to know my clients and then make them seem more glamorous and more eccentric than they think,” he says. “I see myself as a slimming mirror for them.”
Find Jonathan Adler seating, case pieces, decorative objects and other furniture on 1stDibs.
Lampert Charcoal Tufted Velvet Sofa by Jonathan Adler
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Chicago, IL
Lampert Charcoal Tufted Velvet Sofa by Jonathan Adler This stunningly designed Lampert Sofa has all the perfect qualities-- the high tuxedo back gives it an elegant yet formal prese...
Metal
$2,100 / item
Beaumont Bouclé Lounge Chair
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
New Traditionalism. Minimalist rigor meets cocoon-y comfort. Our Beaumont collection's architectural yet airy bases are juxtaposed with silhouettes softened by sculptural flair. Balance and geometry get a glamorous lift from shiny polished brass and luxe Olympus Ivory bouclé. Pairs perfectly with our Beaumont Settee. Specs: Upholstered in Olympus Ivory Bouclé upholstery (54% polyester, 41% acrylic, 5% wool) Loose bench seat cushion...
Brass
$1,226Sale Price / set|30% Off
Jonathan Adler Grey Velvet Rider Counter Stools, Set of 2
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Basildon, London
Designed by Jonathan Adler, these contemporary counter stools have an ornate aesthetic. Constructed from a white frame, the stools have polished nickel sabots and accents, with a ...
Nickel
$2,350 / item
Serpentine Ivory Bouclé Swivel Chair
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
Our ultra-mod Serpentine Swivel Chair features a thick and cushy seat cradled by an ultra-mod tube wrapped in our luxe Olympus Oatmeal bouclé. Perfect f...
Bouclé
$5,050 / item
Claridge Modern Chesterfield Sofa in Navy Leather
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
21st Century comfort. Our spin on the Classic Chesterfield. We took the original profile—clubby comfort, tailored tufting—and made it modern with a pared down silhouette. The finishi...
Brass
Vintage Boho Jonathan Adler “Rider” Dining Chairs- Set of 6
By Jonathan Adler
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
This exquisite set of six “Rider” dining chairs by Jonathan Adler perfectly blends glam boho flair with neoclassical elegance. Each chair features polished brass frames, sleek angula...
Metal
$2,800 / item
Beaumont Bouclé Settee
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
New traditionalism. Minimalist rigor meets cocoon-y comfort. Our Beaumont collection's architectural yet airy bases are juxtaposed with silhouettes softened by sculptural flair. Bala...
Brass
Scandinavian Lounge Chair by Jonathan Adler
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Blending modern glamour with Nordic simplicity, this Scandinavian-style lounge chair by Jonathan Adler features clean lines, tapered legs, and plush upholstery. A fresh take on mid-c...
Fabric, Upholstery, Wood
$2,250 / item
Channeled Goldfinger Lounge Chair
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
Shock Waves. Minimalist comfort gets a modernist makeover—we've taken our definition of leaned-back luxury to the next level with our Channeled Goldfinger Lounge Chair...
Brass
Contemporary Modern Window Bench by Jonathan Adler
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Stunning Mid-Century Modern style window bench in the style of Paul McCobb features unique tapered and splayed legs. Stylish design with plush white tufted upholstery and thick padde...
Upholstery, Walnut
$10,800 / set
H 27 in W 30.5 in D 34 in
Ivory Bouclé Post Modern Swivel Chairs & Ottoman Attributed to Adrian Pearsall
By Comfort Designs, Inc., Adrian Pearsall
Located in Saint Louis, MO
A high sculptural look that's modern with curvy plush all over cushioning is what you'll get with this ménage à trois set of swivel chairs attributed to Adrian Pearsall paired along with a sexy modern custom mushroom shaped ottoman. It all swivels - chairs and ottoman. Reminiscent of Vladimir Kagan and his crescent chair...
Bouclé, Upholstery
Bertu Counter Stools, White Oak Counter Stool, Chile Stool
By Bertu Furniture
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Counter Stools, White Oak Counter Stool, Chile Stool This White Oak Chile Counter Stool is beautifully constructed from solid wood...
Wood, Oak
Square Wool Boucle Swivel Chairs
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Fantastic pair of newly produced square swivel chairs. Comfortable cushioned seats with low profile back cushion. Sits on walnut wood swivel base. ...
Wool, Bouclé, Walnut
Set of 2 Contemporary Cane Back Counter Stool in Ebony
By Duistt
Located in NEW YORK, NY
With a hint of retro, the design of this stool is inspired from the 1950s and the modernist movement of that period. W 51cm 20” D 56,5cm 22” H 83cm 32.7” SH 60cm 23.6” Materials:...
Brass
$6,146 / item
H 31.5 in W 37.41 in D 33.47 in
Contemporary Conchula Swivel Accent Chair, Italian Boucle, Handmade Greenapple
By Greenapple
Located in Lisboa, PT
Contemporary Conchula Swivel Accent Chair, Contemporary Collection, Handcrafted in Portugal - Europe by Greenapple. The Conchula swivel accent chair is a room-defining furniture piece, distinguished by its eye-catching silhouette. Designed to provide ultimate comfort for moments of relaxation, Conchula seamlessly combines timeless craftsmanship with modern sophistication. Whether paired with the Conchula curved sofa or daybed, this swivel accent chair enhances any contemporary interior, elevating the space with its refined presence. Designed by Rute Martins, Greenapple's Creative Director. The Conchula Armchair...
Brass
French Mid Century Counter Stools, 1960 - Set of 3
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Three unique Iron and Rush Mid Century bar stools. These unique stools were bought at Christie's Auction from the esteemed collection of Norah and Norman Stone. It was acquired from ...
Brass, Iron
$2,950 / set
H 38 in W 17 in D 20 in
Chinese Chippendale Faux Bamboo Chairs Jonathan Adler Style Set of Four
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Set of Four midcentury Faux Bamboo Chairs, 2 armchairs and 2 chairs. Hollywood Regency Faux Bamboo chinoiserie Dining Chairs, a Clas...
Faux Bamboo
Tufted Leather Chesterfield Sofa
Located in Westwood, NJ
Crafted from premium top-grain leather, this sofa boasts a rich caramel hue that invites warmth into any living space. The intricate button-tufted detailing on the backrest provides ...
Leather
$12,000 / set
H 29 in W 36 in D 33 in
Pair of Vladimir Kagan Nautilus Swivel Lounge Chairs and Ottoman in Ivory Bouclé
By Vladimir Kagan
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Amongst the most popular Vladimir Kagan designs, these Nautilus swivel lounge chairs are sculptural, comfortable and fun, and were recently professionally reupholstered in cozy Ivory Boucle. Corkscrew shape with sloped back and scrolled arm. The Nautilus chairs swivel making them a good choice for open floor plans - you may align your sight with any person or object in the room simply with a gentle swivel. Matching contoured Ottoman is on casters and seamlessly rolls into place like a puzzle piece inviting you to relax and put your feet up with a good book or a glass of your favorite vino. Fabric is highly durable; it's texture provides for ventilation to keep warm in winter and cool in summer. Want to see more beautiful things? Scroll down below and click "View All From Seller" or favorite our shop to get your 1stDibs on our new inventory. Nautilus Swivel Chairs: 36” W x 33” D x 29” H (Seat Height 17”) Ottoman: 33” W x 21” D x 17” H Photographed along with and also currently available in our shop: Post Modern Karl Springer Style ottoman...
Bouclé
$34,000 / set
H 26 in W 48 in D 36 in
Pair of Adrian Pearsall Attributed Swivel Lounge Chairs in Ivory Bouclé
By Craft Associates, Adrian Pearsall
Located in Saint Louis, MO
So sculptural so fresh, this pair of 1970s modern Adrian Pearsall attributed throne swivel chairs were professionally reupholstered in soft ivory bouclé and swivel atop walnut bases professionally refinished in a dark, contrasting wood stain. The look is modern luxe. Beautiful to admire. If you're simply looking to add "furniture art" into your space, these Adrian Pearsall attributed swivel lounge chairs check that box. Wow factor. Rare. In great condition. The chairs are also comfortable, cozy and wide enough to enjoy most lounging activities you can probably think of. Did we mention the chairs swivel 360 degrees? And ready to ship. Want to see more beautiful things? Scroll down below and click "View All From Seller" or favorite our shop to get your 1stDibs on our new inventory. Photographed alongside and currently available at our shop: Vladimir Kagan for Directional Poufs in ivory bouclé Jens Risom walnut chairs...
Bouclé, Walnut
Ib Kofod-Larsen Cane-Back Lounge Chair Pair
By Ib Kofod-Larsen, Selig
Located in Highland, IN
These two beautiful lounge chairs designed by Ib Kofod-Larsen for Selig have beautiful lines, cane backs, and new seat cushions upholstered in "Rivington" by Knoll.
Cane, Wood
$12,000 / set
H 29 in W 36 in D 33 in
Pair of Vladimir Kagan Nautilus Swivel Lounge Chairs and Ottoman in Ivory Bouclé
By Vladimir Kagan
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Amongst the most popular Vladimir Kagan designs, these Nautilus swivel lounge chairs are sculptural, comfortable and fun, and were recently professionally reupholstered in cozy Ivory...
Bouclé
Jonathan Adler Brass Table Stool
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Miami, FL
Versatile Table Stool by Jonathan Adler A stylish and multifunctional piece by renowned American designer Jonathan Adler, this table stool adds a touch of playful sophistication to ...
Brass
Rider Dining Chair - Rialto Peacock by Jonathan Adler
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Basildon, London
Turn every dinner time into a luxurious experience with the Rider Dining Chairs by Jonathan Adler. The brass accents and regal design add an air of timeless luxury, while the velvet ...
Metal
RIDER ARMCHAIR – RIALTO PEACOCK by JONATHAN ADLER
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Basildon, London
Add a stately presence to your dining area with the regal, Rider Armchair by Jonathan Adler. Complete with brass accents and round, acrylic finials, this velvet-upholstered seat will...
Metal
Serpentine Ivory Bouclé Chaise
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
Pitched to match its curves to yours, our ultra-mod Serpentine Chaise is a thick and cushy tube-shaped seat wrapped in our luxe Olympus Oatmeal boucl...
Bouclé
Bacharach Teddy Swivel Chair
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
Louche glamour. Think Halston, think Studio 54, think sybaritic style. But also think cozy, comfy swivel chair. Upholstered in ivory teddy with an architectural antiqued brass swivel...
Brass
Beaumont Velvet Lounge Chair
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
New Traditionalism. Minimalist rigor meets cocoon-y comfort. Our Beaumont collection's architectural yet airy bases are juxtaposed with silhouettes softened by sculptural flair. Eman...
Brass
Contemporary Modern Jonathan Adler Blue X Base Ottoman
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Keego Harbor, MI
A Jonathan Adler blue X-base ottoman. This cute little blue ottoman features a fully upholstered construction, featuring a soft, sky blue coloring with fi...
Upholstery
Sold
H 32 in W 85 in D 34 in
21st C., Custom Upholstered Jonathan Adler Button Tufted Sofa In Cut Velvet
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Morristown, NJ
21st c., custom Jonathan Adler sofa. A nicely upholstered button tufted sofa in sculpted velvet in a geometric pattern fabric, on a solid maple wo...
Velvet, Maple
Ether Curved Velvet Sofa
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
Heaven sent. A curved sofa announces to the world that you are on the varsity decorating squad. Airy yet edgy, our Ether Curved sofa is upholstered in heavenly Bergamo Azure velvet a...
Brass
White Mongolian Bench with Brass Leg
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
Posh Perch. A plush Mongolian lamb bench with brass legs for a surprising and glamorous twist. It's the perfect perch at the foot of a bed, a natu...
Brass
Brigitte Channeled Sofa in Ivory Bouclé
By Jonathan Adler
Located in New York, NY
Deep Space. Impossibly plush and fabulously futuristic, our Brigitte Sofa looks like it's floating and makes you feel like you're dreaming. Sink in and s...
Bouclé, Upholstery, Hardwood
Mid-Century Style Gray Wool Upholstered Banquette Sofa
By Jonathan Adler
Located in Queens, NY
Mid-century style banquette sofa with light gray Knoll wool upholstery with button tufted seats and backs and tapered wool upholstered legs.
Mohair, Upholstery