Puunveisto OY Furniture

The “Rialto” easy chair is an exceptional model thanks to its amazing woven back. The design showcases the expertly calculated balance of functionality and form that defined the design of the 1950s in the Nordic countries. Finnish design icon, Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs developed the model for his own furniture company, ‘Hiort Tuote Valmistaja Puunveisto Helsinki’, or ‘Hiort Product Manufacturer Puunveisto (woodcarver) Helsinki’. The main design element is unquestionably the leather back that is expertly woven in a cross pattern, standing out against the light upholstered square shaped back cushions. The simple, geometric wooden frames crafted from high-quality wood have a minimalist and timeless elegance. The clean lines and precise angles are hallmarks of Nordic design, reflecting the region's affinity for functional beauty. In this chair model, the streamlined geometric lines of the wood are the perfect frame to showcase both the cushions and the gorgeous back. Hiort af Ornäs was particularly firm about two things regarding his chair designs: the sitting comfort and that the model must look good from every single angle. Much like the “Pedro” model, this pair of ”Rialto” easy chairs easily fulfils these principles, as even from the sides, the design showcases the expertly carved wooden structures and their lightly raised profiles. The removable seat and back cushions, framed by the open bodies, ensure the sitting comfort. The craftsmanship and quality of Hiort af Ornäs is very visible in this pair of easy chairs. This model was designed in 1955-56 and was already exhibited in Milano for the XIth Triennale in 1957, evidencing its then contemporary success. The seating designs of the architect/designer have been gradually more and more recognized world-wide, which resulted in a recent exhibition titled “Forgotten Ornäs”. Form follows function is a principle of design associated with early and mid-20th century architecture and furniture design, stating that the shape of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function or purpose. This was evidently an important principle for the designer, seen in the design of both the structure and aesthetic elements of these “Rialto” chairs...

Chair 'Rialto''s streamlined design and refined details engage in a fascinating dialogue. The beautiful signature leather-wrapped armrests give strength to Rialto's unique appearance...

Pair of Finnish armchairs model “Pedro” designed by Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs for Puunveisto Oy in Finland, 1950s. Designed by renowned Finnish architect Carl Gustaf Hiort af Orn...

Sofa model "Kim" by Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs for Puunveisto Oy from the 1950s. Teak frame, re-upholstered in high quality Sublim 05 V-BEIGE -fabric, good vintage condition, minor w...

Model Mandariini lounge chair by Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs for Puunveisto Oy from the 1960s. Leather seating, teak leg. Good vintage condition, minor wear consistent with age and us...

A rare Carl-Gustav Hiort Af Ornäs wingback "Siesta" armchair by Puunveisto Oy, manufactured circa 1950s. Stunning original wool fabric with birch frame. "Siesta" armchair is an i...

Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs. Revolving armchair, mod. Caravelle, designed by Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs and manufactured by Puunveisto Oy, in Finlan...

Chair 'Rialto's streamlined design and refined details engage in a fascinating dialogue. The beautiful signature leather-wrapped armrests give strength to Rialto's unique appearance,...

Rare pair of Scandinavian Modern easy chairs, model “Lehti” (leaf) designed by Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs. Manufactured by Puunveisto Oy - Träsnideri in Finland during the 1950s. ...

Fantastic pair of 'Mandarini' swivel armchairs made by Carl Gustaf Hiort for Puunveisto Oy, wood work Ltd. These chairs are upholstered with a buttoned orange fabric 'Hallingdal' by Kvadrat designed by Nanna Ditzel, on an oak swivel base...

Fantastic 'Mandarini' swivel armchair made by Carl Gustaf Hiort for Puunveisto Oy, wood work Ltd. This chair is upholstered with a buttoned orange fabric 'Hallingdal' by Kvadrat designed by Nanna Ditzel on an oak swivel base...

Chair 'Rialto' 's streamlined design and sophisticated details engage in a fascinating dialogue. The braided leather straps at the back and curved legs shaped from a single piece of ...