European Mid-Century Modern Armchairs in Bouclé, Europe, ca 1950s

Mid-Century Modern, a design movement devoted to timeless functionalism established itself in the post-war period with furniture that appealed to the senses. Furniture design was guided by the famous maxim: “Form follows function.” For midcentury designers, materials were used for their own distinct; often a piece of furniture would combine only two materials or colours – creating tension and harmony without fuss or superfluous ornament and these fully upholstered lounge chairs are perfect examples of this sentiment. The duality of two materials and colour scheme create an elegant, self-supporting, and enticingly functional design. The combination of solid wood and high-quality upholstery is traditional in mid-century design for a good reason. The two materials complement each other by highlighting their unique material qualities. This pair falls into the category of the so-called biomorphic midcentury: furniture that relished in organic, curved, smooth surfaces, design that was moulded into the shapes of natural occurrences, and which was a lively contrast to the more austere machine aesthetic...

The Mid-Century Modern era is notable for its blending of Classic modern design elements with a slightly more updated feel. This beautiful pair of Italia lounge chairs has a Classic, comfortable style that is a prime example of the best qualities of what is referred to as Modernism in European design. Several key factors define the Italian approach to design: respect for craftsmanship, quality materials and finally, an elegant, high-end look. Upholstered cabinetmaker chairs may seem similar at first sight; however, each model’s individuality becomes evident upon closer inspection. In these chairs’ case, their thick, welcoming shape and the sleek, tapered wooden feet Stand out immediately. The design has achieved a perfect balance between form and function, in which aesthetics and utility come together in a purely Mid-Century Modern manner. The fully upholstered wooden frames rest on dark lacquered wood legs. The feet are splayed to support stability, while their stylish dark colour contrast to the elegant, light upholstery. The backs are relatively low, enhancing the stylish look along with the thick arms, backs, and seat cushions. Together these design elements create a modern look with the beloved organic, curvy aesthetic. The exceptionally soft, textured fabric highlights the bodies’ rounded edges and sheer volume. Italy was especially passionate about furniture and product design during the mid-century, an area where the country remained faithful to a figurative repertoire of substantial classicism, while not disdaining impulses of authentic modernity. As a result, Italian modern furniture...

A pair of upholstered armchairs from France, produced circa 1940. Swooping lines of teak frame heather grey seats in this sharp mid-century set. Angled legs give this set a dynamism ...

This pair of Italian armchairs captures the essence of mid-20th century modern design, attributed to Paolo Buffa. Made around the 1950s, these armchairs are distinguished by their el...