The architect Pierre Guariche was one of the leading modern furniture and lighting designers of postwar France. Guariche can, in some ways, be thought of as the French version of Charles Eames: with his lean and angular chairs and slender, sculptural table lamps, he helped introduce a new aesthetic to the country’s interiors — and he was an eager pioneer in the use of new industrial materials and production techniques that emerged in the 1950s.
Guariche studied at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris (the national design academy) under René Gabriel — a designer known for his quality, mass-produced furnishings, who served as a director of the postwar Ministry of Reconstruction. Two years after graduating in 1949, Guariche opened his own design firm, and he was soon creating pieces for numerous companies, including the lighting manufacturer Disderot.
Wood and metal were rationed in the years following the war and Guariche learned to do more with less. His chairs of the early 1950s include several designs with narrow, softly angular wooden frames; others, like the Tonneau chair, feature a single piece of molded plywood set atop metal legs. His lamps of the period are likely his best-known works. They include delicate compositions of slender steel tubes, and more flamboyant pieces such as the Kite lamp, with its curved metal reflector panel.
Always on the lookout for new materials, Guariche spent several years in the mid-1950s operating a firm making furniture in fiberglass and other plastics, along with Joseph André Motte and others. After 1957 — when Guariche was named head of design for the Belgian company Meurop and given a brief to create stylish, up-to-date chairs and cabinets — he began to look to America for ideas.
In the mid-1960s, Guariche produced several lines of deeply upholstered, rounded lounge chairs inspired by the Space Age look, and gave them names like Jupiter, Polaris and Luna. While Guariche always kept pace with his times, throughout his career he showed a consistent talent for producing elegant, eye-catching forms using a minimum of materials.
Find vintage Pierre Guariche furniture today on 1stDibs.
Pierre Guariche Original Prefacto Coffee Table, circa 1952, France.
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Brussels, BE
Rare original Pierre Guariche coffee table Prefacto model, edited by Meurop circa 1952. Oak plywood and black enameled metal. Dimensions: 68 cm W, 51 cm D, 42 cm H. Good original con...
Oak
Set of ‘VOLANTE’ Side Tables for Steiner by Pierre Guariche
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba
The "Volante" side table set was designed by renowned French designer Pierre Garliche for Steiner. Its light structure, combining a minimalist steel frame with a thin tabletop, symbo...
Steel
Aquilon Coffee Table by Pierre Guariche for Les Huchers-Minvielle, France, 1962
By Les Huchers-Minvielle 1, Pierre Guariche
Located in Barcelona, ES
Aquilon coffee table designed in 1962 by Pierre Guariche for Les Huchers-Minvielle, France. Walnut wood and tabletop in original clear glass. The table can be used as a coffee table ...
Glass, Walnut
Pierre Guariche : Coat rack for La Plagne Ski Resort, circa 1968
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Wall-mounted coat rack composed of a plywood panel veneered in blond mahogany, with four aluminum hooks. This model was designed by Pierre Guariche for the interior fittings of the...
Plywood
"Prefacto" Side Table by Pierre Guariche for Trefac Meurop, circa 1950, France
By Pierre Guariche, Trefac
Located in Girona, Spain
"Prefacto" side table by Pierre Guariche for Trefac Meurop Rare original condition. Table top in massive oak. Lacquered metal tube legs. circa 1950, Fr...
Metal
Pierre Guariche, Set of 2 Aquilon Side Tables, Les Huchers-Minvielle, 1960
By Les Huchers-Minvielle 1, Pierre Guariche
Located in Wargrave, Berkshire
Pierre Guariche (1926-1995) Set of two square coffee or side tables from the Aquilon series manufactured by Les Huchers-Minvielle, circa 1960 each formed from a cross base in teak wi...
Laminate, Teak
Volante Side Table by Pierre Guariche for Steiner Éditeur, France, 1960s
By Pierre Guariche
Located in New York, NY
The large cocoon table lamp reflects the Castiglioni brothers’ playful approach to form and material. A steel frame is wrapped in a resin cocoon, creating a soft, diffused glow that ...
Steel, Metal
Prefacto side table by Pierre Guariche
By Pierre Guariche
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Jolie table d’appoint dite prefacto, modèle crée en 1951 pour airborne.
Metal
“Flying” coffee table by Pierre Guariche for Steiner
By Pierre Guariche
Located in LYON, FR
Famous Small Coffee table known as the “Flying table” from Pierre Guariche's Steiner collection. Typical of the 1950s and the creations of this French designer. Composed of a white ...
Laminate, Mahogany
$13,500
Pierre Guariche Coffee Table
By Pierre Guariche
Located in LAGUNA BEACH, CA
Pierre Guariche’s Coffee Table, from 1953, is a refined example of mid-century French modernism, showcasing his mastery of form, function, and material. With its clean lines and prec...
Brass
A Modular Table by Pierre Guariche for la Plagne, circa 1968
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Crafted by the visionary Pierre Guariche, this versatile table seamlessly transforms into a coffee table, a desk, or even a dining table to suit your needs. Meticulously constructed...
Plywood
Aquilon Teak Coffee Table by Pierre Guariche, Les Huchers-Minvielle, 1960
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Saint Ouen, France
Aquilon teak coffee table by Pierre Guariche, Les Huchers-Minvielle, 1960 Rare Aquilon furniture by Pierre Guariche Pierre Guariche (1926 - 1995) is one of the legendary French designers of the 1950s, who left his mark on his era with purely aesthetic, functional and accessible pieces. A graduate of the École nationale supérieure des Arts décoratifs, he published his first designs on his own, including the famous Rotaflex lamp, which he exhibited at the Salon des Arts ménagers and then at the Salon des Artistes décorateurs. It was a great success with the public, and soon attracted the interest of publishers. Pierre Guariche went on to create furniture, lighting and decorative objects for Airborne, Pierre Disderot and Steiner. In 1954, he also joined forces with decorators Michel Mortier and Joseph-André Motte, with whom he founded the Atelier de recherche plastique. ARP went on to create furniture for Charles Minvielle's living room, dining room and bedroom. At the end of the 1950s, as artistic director of the Belgian furniture company Meurop, he gradually turned to interior design. In 1965, he was awarded the Prix René Gabriel. Pierre Guariche's original creations have become iconic pieces such as the Amsterdam chair...
Glass, Teak
A Modular Table by Pierre Guariche for la Plagne, circa 1968
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Crafted by the visionary Pierre Guariche, this versatile table seamlessly transforms into a coffee table, a desk, or even a dining table to suit your needs. Meticulously constructed...
Plywood
Pierre Guariche Metal and wood Square French Mid-Century Side Table
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Barcelona, ES
Pierre Guariche (1926–1995) Side table Manufactured by Steiner France, 1950s Metal, formica Measurements 39 cm x 39 cm x 36h cm 15.36 in x 15.36 in x 14.18 in Provenance Private c...
Metal
Expandable Dining Table by Pierre Guariche & A.R.P
By Pierre Guariche
Located in New York, NY
Expandable dining table by Pierre Guariche & Atelier de Recherche Plastique Table with ash extension by Pierre Guariche for Les Huchers Minvielle, 1955. Revarnished tray in perfe...
Metal
VOLANTE Side Table by Pierre Guariche, France, 1960s
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Tokyo, Tokyo
A side table designed by Pierre Guariche for Steiner, part of the VOLANTE series. Characterized by its minimalist construction, the table features a slender metal frame paired with a...
Wood
Pierre Guariche, Pair of White Flying Table for Steiner, France, 1955
By Pierre Guariche, Steiner
Located in Santa Gertrudis, Baleares
Beautiful pair of white flying tables designed by Pierre Guariche for Steiner, 1955 Pierre Guariche (1925-1995) is a legendary French designer from the 2...
Metal
A Set of Three Nesting Tables by Pierre Guariche France 1960s
By Pierre Guariche
Located in HYÈRES, FR
A set of three nesting tables by Pierre Guariche France 1960s. Manufacturer : Les Huchers Minvielles A Formica top and a base in chromed metal. Report : a lack of formica on a tab...
Chrome
French Mid-Century Double Tier Steel & Glass Cocktail Table by Pierre Guariche
By Pierre Guariche
Located in New York, NY
An elegant and pure Modernist Statement, a rare French Mid-Century Modern double tier coffee table in black enameled steel and glass with brass details by Pierre Guariche, circa 1950-1960. This original double tiered cocktail table features refined architectural details with a larger top level raised on steel piers and cantilevered over its black steel frame and the lower glass level. Both glass tops are pierced and provide subtle design elements with the top held in place by 4 brass flat round finials and the bottom with 2 brass finials. This piece represents the essence of Modernism: a transparent form which reveals its structure and thus gives a pure aesthetic experience, refined detailing and total functionality. Dimensions: H 15 x W 35.83 x D 17.63; the height of the lower tier is 5.5". Additional References: Balancier Wall Light, Prefacto Armchair & Table, Cerf-Volant Floor Lamp, KIte Floor Lamp, Equilibrium Floor Lamp, Prestige Chairs, Tonneau Chair. Compas Chair...
Brass, Steel
Burlwood Side Table, France 1950's
Located in New York, NY
Live edge burl wood side table on tripod tapered legs.
Burl
$1,480
H 13.78 in W 13.78 in D 33.47 in
Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table by Pierre Guariche, France, c. 1950s
By Pierre Guariche
Located in London, GB
A small French black iron and glass coffee table attributed to Pierre Guariche.
Metal
$1,275Sale Price / set|20% Off
H 15.36 in Dm 16.54 in
Gianfranco Frattini for Cassina Set of Four Stackable Tables, 1968
By Gianfranco Frattini, Cassina
Located in bari, IT
Set of four stackable cylindrical coffee tables model Marema designer Gianfranco frattini for cassina late 1960s Heights of other three side tables 33 - 28 -23 cm
Plastic
$1,120Sale Price|20% Off
H 15.5 in W 41.5 in D 21.5 in
1970s Pierre Vandel French Coffee Table Paris France
By Pierre Vandel
Located in Chula Vista, CA
For your consideration, a fabulous Coffee Table, designed by Pierre Vandel, Paris France circa the 1970s. Aluminum base with cut-glass top. Aluminum, Brass and Glass. Dimensions: 1...
Aluminum, Brass
Pierre Vandel Coffee Table
By Pierre Vandel
Located in Jersey City, NJ
A large double level cocktail table in lucite and brass by Pierre Vandel.. This table is signed and with new glasses, as the old ones have been replaced . This table fits with any ...
Brass
Mario Bellini for Cassina 'La Rotonda' Coffee Table, circa 1977
By Cassina, Mario Bellini
Located in New York, NY
The 'La Rotonda' cocktail table, designed by Mario Bellini for Cassina in 1977, is a stunning representation of modernist design. The thick circular beveled glass top provides for a ...
Glass, Nutwood
Side Tables by Jorge Zalszupin, 1960s, Set of 2
By Jorge Zalszupin
Located in Radomsko, Województwo łódzkie
Elegant and organic, the Pétale side tables by Jorge Zalszupin are true icons of 1960s Brazilian design. Inspired by nature, their petal-shaped tops and light bases embody the perfec...
Palisander, Rosewood, Plywood
Side table by Jacques Adnet, 1950s France
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A small side table by Jacques Adnet, featuring a square black leather-wrapped top edged in a continuous row of brass nailhead studs — a hallmark of Adnet's signature stitched-leather...
Metal
$1,400Sale Price / set|20% Off
H 20.5 in W 19.5 in D 16 in
Mid-Century Modern Side Tables by Pierre Vandel, France, 1970s
By Pierre Vandel
Located in Chula Vista, CA
For your consideration, A pair of side tables, designed and signed by Pierre Vandel. Fabulous clean modern lines. Paris France circa late 1970s. Maker signature present. Dimensions...
Aluminum, Brass
Pierre Chapo "T22" Elm Coffee Table, France 1970s
By Pierre Chapo
Located in Utrecht, NL
This peculiar “T22” table model is also referred to as the “Eye”. While the name needs no further explanation, the ingenious design certainly does. Pierre Chapo always paired his cre...
Elm
$28,000
H 23.63 in W 31.5 in D 47.25 in
Volante, Draped Form Sculptural Side Table in Cast Polished Bronze
By Katz Studio
Located in San Jose del Cabo, BCS
The Volante Side Table, an exquisite piece from the Levitaz Collection, embodies the fusion of artistry and functionality. Its design is a striking visual metaphor for grace and fluidity, reminiscent of fabric caught in a gentle breeze. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the table appears to defy gravity, with its golden surface reflecting light in a way that enhances its undulating form. The brilliance of the Bronze finish adds a touch of opulence, while the table's sculptural presence anchors it firmly as a centerpiece in any room. As a part of the Levitaz Collection, the Volante Side Table stands as a testament to Katz Studio's commitment to pushing the boundaries of design. The collection itself is known for its daring exploration of dynamic forms and the interplay between natural fluidity and the static function of furniture. Each piece within the collection, including the Volante Side Table, is not only a functional item but also a piece of conversational art...
Bronze
Pierre Chapo Coffee Table T02 L French Oak 1965
By Pierre Chapo
Located in Santa Gertrudis, Baleares
Pierre Chapo original 60's French oak coffee table T02 L 114 cm diameter. Created in 1963, the T02 table is distinguished by its rounded shapes. Part of the first generation of Chap...
Oak
Tonneau chair by Pierre Guariche, Steiner, 1953
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Tonneau chair designed by Pierre Guariche in the late 1950s, produced by Steiner. The molded plywood seat forms a curved shell with a distinctive lumbar opening, a defining feature ...
Metal
Metal and laminate desk, Meurop, 1960s
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Desk designed by Pierre Guariche and produced by Meurop in the 1960s. The slender black lacquered metal frame supports a clean-lined laminate top. A suspended wooden drawer unit in...
Metal
Pierre Guariche : Coat rack for La Plagne Ski Resort, circa 1968
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Wall-mounted coat rack composed of a plywood panel veneered in blond mahogany, with four aluminum hooks. This model was designed by Pierre Guariche for the interior fittings of the...
Plywood
A Modular Table by Pierre Guariche for la Plagne, circa 1968
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Crafted by the visionary Pierre Guariche, this versatile table seamlessly transforms into a coffee table, a desk, or even a dining table to suit your needs. Meticulously constructed...
Plywood
Sold
H 13 in W 31.5 in D 21.26 in
Pierre Guariche, Low Coffee or Side table, Galerie MAI, France, c. 1950s
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Hønefoss, 30
Side table designed by Pierre Guariche, produced by Galerie MAI in Paris, c. 1950s. Made entirely of oak with clean, functional lines. Early edition. Shows signs of age and use, incl...
Oak
Sold
H 28.75 in W 51.19 in D 31.5 in
Pierre Guariche Adjustable Extension Dining Table – Mid-Century French Design
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Pierre Guariche Adjustable Extension Dining Table – Mid-Century French Design, Circa 1950. Presenting an elegant adjustable extension dining table designed by the renowned French d...
Metal
Sold
H 70.87 in W 29.93 in D 31.5 in
Design desk by Pierre Guariche, edited by Maison Minvielle, circa 60
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Renens, CH
Desk by Pierre Guariche, French design Mahogany desk comprising two pedestals opening onto five drawers linked by a black-lacquered metal spacer bar, all resting on four straight l...
Metal
A Modular Table by Pierre Guariche for la Plagne, circa 1968
By Pierre Guariche
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Crafted by the visionary Pierre Guariche, this versatile table seamlessly transforms into a coffee table, a desk, or even a dining table to suit your needs. Meticulously constructed...
Plywood
Side table by Pierre Guariche for Trefac / Meuro
By Meurop, Pierre Guariche, Trefac
Located in Vlimmeren, BE
This beautiful kidney shaped side table was designed by Pierre Guariche for Trefac / Meurop Belgium in the fifties. The wooden top is fixed on a black metal tripod base. It has the ...
Metal
Sold
H 16.15 in W 26.78 in D 20.48 in
French Wooden Mid Century "Airbourne" Coffee Side Table by Pierre Guariche 1950s
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Stockholm, SE
Very rare French mid century sculptural coffee side table in oak wood and white lacquered metal by Pierre Guariche for Aibourne France, 1950s. In good vintage condition with patina f...
Metal
Rare Pierre Guariche coffee table for Meurop
By Meurop, Pierre Guariche
Located in Vlimmeren, BE
Rare Pierre Guariche coffee table for Meurop. Look at the beautiful design of the metal frame. It is in perfect condition.
Metal
Sold
H 29.53 in W 63.39 in D 27.96 in
Pierre Guariche. Desk in teak and lacquered metal. 1960s. LS56631534M
By Pierre Guariche
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
Pierre Guariche, by. Desk in teak with its lacquered metal base. Black laminate top. French work realized in the 1960s. Dimensions: H 75 x W 161 x D 71 cm Reference: LS56631534M
Metal