Though vintage Warren Platner chairs, sofas and interiors are icons of mid-century modernism, the architect and furniture designer took his stylistic inspiration from as far back as 18th-century France, once saying about his seminal collection for Knoll that his design intent was to evoke “the kind of decorative, gentle, graceful kind of design that appeared in period style like Louis XV.”
Indeed, the marriage of modern sensibility and classical grace is a marker of Platner’s style across furnishings and interiors — both genres in which he left an enduring legacy.
Born in 1919 in Baltimore, Maryland, Platner studied architecture at Cornell before cutting his teeth working for design icons like Eero Saarinen and Kevin Roche, eventually serving as head of interior design in the latter’s office. In 1965, Platner opened his own office, in Greenwich, Connecticut, where he continued to hone his particular brand of graceful modernism.
Knoll released the Platner Collection of seating and tables in 1966. (Originally designed in 1962, the suite took nearly four years of development to bring to life.)
The decorative bent-metal-and-glass pieces — an armchair, a dining table and more — make certain nods to the trademarks of his former employers, but also to the shapes of historic European furniture. The sculptural elegance of his line recalls Saarinen’s iconic Tulip collection, which includes armchairs and dining tables, while his materiality aligns with Roche’s cutting-edge use of glass and metal for the headquarters of the Ford Foundation in New York.
Many of Platner’s Knoll pieces would go on to find homes in a certain fabled locale: the Windows on the World restaurant at the original World Trade Center, whose interiors Platner was tapped to outfit in the mid-1970s. Upon the opening of the restaurant in 1976, New York Times architecture critic Paul Goldberger dubbed its style “sensuous modernism” — an apt tagline for Platner’s oeuvre as a whole.
Platner died in 2006 at the age of 86. His furniture is still produced by Knoll, and original examples — along with idiosyncratic custom works he created for interior design clients — are coveted by collectors today.
Find vintage Warren Platner furniture on 1stDibs.
Vintage Pair of Warren Platner Chairs in Bronzed Steel for Knoll
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in North Miami, FL
An outstanding PAIR of sculptural armchairs by Warren Platner for Knoll. These are in the classic bronze finish. The upholstery has been redone in a blue mohair. Retain the original...
Steel
Pair of Warren Platner armchairs, Knoll edition, 1974.
By Warren Platner
Located in LYON, FR
Platner Armchairs – Warren Platner – Knoll Edition (1974) Pair of original Platner armchairs created in 1966 by American designer Warren Platner for Knoll. Bronze-finished steel. A ...
Brass, Steel
$15,900 / set
Set of Eight Warren Platner Armchair.
By Warren Platner
Located in Miami, FL
Set of 8 Warren Platner armchair, newly upholstered. 3 armchair with the knoll logo . Very good vintage condition, please see video .
Steel
$6,000 / item
Midcentury American Arm Chair, Done by W. Platner
By Warren Platner, Lehigh Leopold
Located in Houston, TX
Midcentury American armchairs done by W. Platner Warren Platner (June 18, 1919–April 17, 2006) was an American architect and interior designer. Platner produced a furniture collectio...
Zebra Wood, Upholstery
1970s Vintage Warren Platner Occasional Chair Knoll Beige Knobby Wool
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Hyattsville, MD
The perfect glamorous vanity chair. Very sculptural wire armchair designed by Warren Platner and produced by Knoll in the 1970s. Dingy original wool blend woven KNOLL knobby biege ...
Stainless Steel
$11,186 / set
Lounge Chair and Footstool by Warren Platner, 1966
By Warren Platner
Located in Berlin, Berlin
VINTAGE Easy chair and footstool designed by Warren Platner. U.S.A, Knoll International, 1966. The lounge chair, model number 1725. Welded curved steel and wool upholstery. Beautifu...
Metal
$4,650Sale Price / item|22% Off
Warren Platner for Knoll Lounge Chairs in Knoll Wool Boucle, Pair Available
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This near-mint condition pair of authentic Warren Platner for Knoll lounge chairs (Model 1715L) are upholstered in a gorgeous red wool boucle fabric by Knoll called their "Classic Bo...
Nickel
1960s Warren Platner Dining Arm Chair in Bronze Finish w/ Hopsack Upholstery
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Philadelphia, PA
This is a Platner Dining Armchair, model 1725, initially designed by Warren Platner for Knoll in 1966. This is an early example, dating to the late 1960s. The frame of this chair is ...
Steel
Vintage / Modernist Warren Platner Chair in Bronzed Steel for Knoll
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Buffalo, NY
A classic modernist sculptural armchair by Warren Platner for Knoll. Chair in the classic bronze finish in nice original condition, The upholstery has been redone . Retains the origi...
Steel
Armchair by Warren Platner for Knoll International, 1960s
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in bruxelles, BE
Armchair by Warren Platner in metal with green fabric. Knoll edition. Large model. Seat height: 49 cm. Wear due to time and age.
Metal
1972 Original Warren Platner for Knoll Orange Easy Chair and Ottoman
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Chattanooga, TN
This iconic lounge chair and ottoman by Warren Platner for Knoll International represents the peak of sculptural American modernism. Designed in the mid-1960s and still celebrated as...
Stainless Steel
Pair of Warren Platner "Easy" Lounge Chairs and Ottoman
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in North Miami, FL
Luxurious PAIR of model 1705 easy lounge chairs and matching ottoman, designed by Warren Platner for Knoll. Zinc steel wire rods are bent and welded to form a graceful, sculptural si...
Steel
$11,487Sale Price / set|20% Off
Warren Platner Lounge Chairs by Knoll, Vintage 1960s Design, USA
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Paris, FR
Pair of Warren Platner lounge chairs for Knoll.
Steel
Pair of Warren Platner Easy Lounge Chairs and Ottoman
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A pair of Model 1705 easy chairs with ottoman, designed by Warren Platner for Knoll. Zinc steel wire rods are bent and welded to form a graceful, sculptural Silhouette. A generously ...
Zinc
Pair of Warren Platner for Knoll Dining Arm Chairs with Bronzed Frames
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Philadelphia, PA
This is a pair of Platner Armchairs, designed by Warren Platner for Knoll. These are early examples, probably dating to the late 1960s. The frames of these chairs are composed of pat...
Steel
Warren Platner for Knoll Gold Plated Armchair with Andes Black Leather
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Palm Springs, CA
A stunning Warren Platner for Knoll armchair in 18k Gold Plated steel and Andes black leather. We were fortunate to find this chair. It was used as a floor sample for a Retailer who ...
Gold Plate, Steel
Original Vintage Chrome Warren Platner for KNOLL Armchairs, Pair
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in North Miami, FL
These exceptional vintage chrome Warren Platner for Knoll armchairs have been expertly reupholstered in a creamy Pierre Frey Paris Bo...
Chrome
Lounge chair & Ottoman by Warren Platner for Knoll International, 1960s
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in bruxelles, BE
Lounge chair and ottoman in metal with red fabric by Warren Platner. Seat height: 47 cm. Ottoman dimensions: Ottoman: H: 42 cm Dia: 68 cm. Wear due to time and age. FOR SHIPPING, REQ...
Metal
6x Warren Platner Arm Chairs – Knoll International – Nickel-Plated – Hallingdal
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Telgte, DE
For sale is a set of 6 original armchairs by renowned designer Warren Platner, produced by Knoll International – an iconic design statement from the mid-20th century. Details: • Man...
Steel, Nickel
Warren Platner Easy Lounge Chair for Knoll (Old Edition)
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Argelato, BO
Vintage Warren Platner Easy Chair (Model 1705; aka Easy Lounge Chair) It is one of the most iconic and representative models of the famous American architect and designer Warren Pl...
Steel
Pair of Warren Platner for Knoll Curved Steel and Blue Upholstered Armchairs
By Warren Platner
Located in Queens, NY
Pair of curved steel crescent shaped arm chairs with blue upholstery. (WARREN PLATNER for KNOLL, circa 1966). Some oxidation and spotting to metal.
Steel
Pair of Bronzed Steel Warren Platner Lounge Chairs for Knoll
By Warren Platner
Located in Dallas, TX
A pair of bronzed steel lounge chairs designed by Warren Platner for Knoll. Newly upholstered in Holly Hunt / Teddy / Winter White fabric. Matching large ottoman available separately.
Steel
Warren Platner Gray Leather 1705 Easy Chair and Ottoman Set of Two, Knoll, 1966
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Warren platner gray leather easy chair and ottoman set of two, Knoll, 1966. Knoll Models 1705L and 1705Y. See final two images for proper dimensions...
Stainless Steel, Nickel
Warren Platner Grey Leather Easy Chair and Ottoman Set of Three, Knoll, 1966
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Warren platner grey leather easy chair and ottoman set of three, Knoll, 1966. Knoll Models 1705L and 1705Y. Please see last image for proper dimensions. Warren Platner for Knoll gr...
Stainless Steel, Nickel
$9,800 / set
H 30.25 in W 36.5 in D 25.5 in
Pair of Warren Platner for Knoll Lounge Chairs in Sapphire Velvet
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Culver City, CA
Available right now we have 2 pairs of Warren Platner Lounge Chairs. Priced per pair these chairs are a sublime fusion of opulence and iconic design that are timelessly chic. Crafted to perfection, these lounge chairs are not merely pieces of furniture; they are functional pieces or art. Enveloped in a sumptuous deep sapphire velvet, these lounge chairs redefine comfort and style. The allure of the plush upholstery beckons you to sink into a world of indulgence, with the rich velvety texture against your skin, a tactile symphony that will elevate your relaxation to an art form. Warren Platner was a luminary in the world of modern design, Platner's career was marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and elegance. Trained as an architect, he seamlessly transitioned into the realm of furniture design, leaving an indelible mark with his distinctive creations. Platner's ingenuity was particularly evident in his collaboration with Knoll, a legendary name in the world of modern furniture. Founded in 1938 by Hans Knoll and later joined by his wife Florence Knoll, the company became synonymous with cutting-edge design and a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Knoll became a trailblazer, collaborating with visionaries like Warren Platner to create pieces that would go on to define an era. The Platner Lounge Chairs, with their unique design and quality materials, stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of both Warren Platner and Knoll. These chairs aren't just pieces of furniture; they are collectors' items, highly sought after by those who appreciate the intersection of art and functionality. In a world where trends come and go, the Platner Lounge Chairs stand the test of time. They aren't just a place to sit; they are an experience, a visual and tactile journey into the lap of luxury. Owning these chairs isn't just a choice; it's an affirmation of a lifestyle that values the finer things – where comfort meets design, and every piece of furniture is a statement. These chairs would look incredible in any mid century modern, contemporary or modern environment. We currently have these chairs in our gallery alongside other iconic pieces, and Arne Jacobsen egg chair, and Eero Saarinen dining set...
Nickel
$9,201 / set
H 29.93 in W 29.53 in D 22.45 in
Set of Four Warren Platner Dining Armchairs for Knoll, 1960s
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Paddock Wood Tonbridge, GB
Warren Platner Dining chairs An iconic set of four Warren Platner dining armchairs for Knoll, designed in the 1960s and instantly recognisable for their sculptural elegance and archi...
Steel
Set of 6 Bronze Chairs designed by Warren Platner for Knoll
By Warren Platner
Located in Dallas, TX
This fabulous set of 6 bronze Warren Platner Chairs are ready for your reinvention! Designed for Knoll in 1966, these chair frames are rare and difficult to find with a good metal c...
Bronze, Steel
Warren Platner Ottomans/Stools for Knoll
By Warren Platner
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A pair of Warren Platner Ottomans/Stools manufactured by Knoll Original velvet Upholstery
Stainless Steel
Pair of Warren Platner for Knoll Easy Chairs in Blue Mohair
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Dallas, TX
Warren Platner's iconic Easy chair for Knoll. We have reupholstered this in a high-quality mohair.
Nickel
Vintage 1960s Warren Platner for Knoll Lounge Chair
Located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Vintage 1960s Warren Platner for Knoll Lounge Chair. Used, Some Wear and Tear on the Fabric from Use and some discoloration on the metal, See Photos for details. Dimensions: 30 1/4...
Metal
Warren Platner for Knoll Mid Century Bronzed Steel Dining Chair
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Warren Platner for Knoll Mid Century Bronze Dining Chair This chair measures: 27.5 wide x 21.5 deep x 29.5 inches high, with a seat height of 15 and arm height/chair clearance of 24...
Steel
$22,000 / set
H 39.5 in W 41 in D 36 in
1974 Knoll Warren Platner Sensational Off-White Easy Lounge Chair Pair
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Chula Vista, CA
For your consideration, Pair of easy lounge chairs designed by Warren Platner for Knoll. Metal design fabric with fresh new upholstery Original label present 1974 39.5 tall x 41 w x...
Metal
$6,500 / set
H 29.25 in W 27 in D 21.75 in
Vintage Pair of Mid Century Warren Platner Dining Chairs for Knoll
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in North Hollywood, CA
[Pair of Mid Century Warren Platner Dining Chairs for Knoll] This sophisticated set of mid-century dining chairs, crafted by Warren Platner for Knoll, features gracefully curved, ni...
Metal
Pair of Warren Platner Easy Lounge Chairs and Ottoman
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A pair of Model 1705 easy chairs with ottoman, designed by Warren Platner for Knoll. Zinc steel wire rods are bent and welded to form a graceful, sculptural Silhouette. A generously ...
Zinc
Warren Platner for Knoll Easy Chair
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Warren Platner for Knoll, easy chair and ottoman, model '1705', steel, fabric, United States, design ca. 1962, production later. This iconic lounge chair by Warren Platner is create...
Steel
American Victorian Natural Wicker Arm Chair
By Heywood-Wakefield Co.
Located in Queens, NY
American Victorian natural wicker arm chair with fan shaped back with scroll and filigree design. (Heywood Brothers)
Wicker
1972 Original Warren Platner for Knoll Yellow Metallic Armchair
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Chattanooga, TN
The yellow Platner chair and coffee table are NOT included.. they have sold. This iconic lounge armchair, created by Warren Platner for Knoll in 1972, stands as a sculptural emblem ...
Stainless Steel
Warren Platners Chair in cream fabric by Knoll International
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in amstelveen, NL
Warren Platner chairs, cream kvadrat wool fabric, Knoll International In 1966, the Platner Collection captured the “decorative, gentle, graceful' shapes that were beginning to infil...
Wool
Set of 6 Warren Platner for Knoll Armchairs
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Palm Springs, CA
A nice set of 6 Warren Platner for Knoll Armchairs in polished nickel finish. The upholstery will likely need to be redone. We just acquired these and would normally redo them but ou...
Nickel
Warren Platners Chair in cream fabric by Knoll International
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in amstelveen, NL
Warren Platner dining chair, cream kvadrat wool fabric, , Knoll International In 1966, the Platner Collection captured the “decorative, gentle, graceful' shapes that were beginning ...
Wool
Warren Platner, two Armchairs for Knoll International
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Saarbrücken, SL
In the mid-1960s, Warren Platner designed a furniture series with round steel rods, which included these chairs. The two sculptural wire armchairs are from the 1980s. They are in ver...
Steel
Sold
H 28.75 in W 27.17 in D 21.26 in
Chairs by Warren Platner for Knoll International, 1960s, set of 2
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in bruxelles, BE
Pair of Chairs by Warren Platner in metal and with original red fabric. Knoll edition. Seat height: 47 cm. Wear due to time and age of the armchair.
Metal
Sold
H 29.14 in W 27.56 in D 22.05 in
Set of 6 Warren Platners Chairs in cream/beige fabric by Knoll International
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in amstelveen, NL
Warren Platner dining chairs, beige kvadrat fabric, set of 6, Knoll International In 1966, the Platner Collection captured the “decorative, gentle, graceful' shapes that were beginn...
Wool
Pair Of Two Armchairs Designed By Warren Platner, 1960's
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Madrid, ES
Pair of two armchairs designed by Warren Platner for Knoll, composed of a steel structure with welded rods creating curved shapes and upholstered...
Steel
Warren Platner for Knoll Arm Chairs/ Pair in suede
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Warren Platner for Knoll Pair of Armchairs. In like new condition! Chairs are not even 2 years old! Beautiful chairs in great condition! 1966 Design that still looks current! Ni...
Nickel
Set Of 6 Armchairs Designed By Warren Platner, 1960's
By Knoll, Warren Platner
Located in Madrid, ES
Set of six armchairs designed by Warren Platner for Knoll, composed of a steel structure with welded rods creating curved shapes and upholstered with bouclé white wool. Table also a...
Steel
Warren Platner Steel & Boucle Tweed Armchairs for Knoll
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Warren platner steel & boucle tweed armchairs for Knoll.
Steel, Chrome
Sold
H 30.25 in W 36.5 in D 25.5 in
Warren Platner for Knoll Lounge Chair in Knoll Velvet with Bronze Finish
By Warren Platner, Knoll
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A beautiful Warren Platner for Knoll lounge chair (Model 1715L), upholstered in a gorgeous burgundy (wine) color velvet fabric over a bronze finish frame. The deep burgundy velvet is a luxurious upgrade over the standard knit fabric that is more commonly seen, the fabric is called "Knoll Velvet...
Steel