Postmodern design was a short-lived movement that manifested itself chiefly in Italy and the United States in the early 1980s. The characteristics of vintage postmodern furniture and other postmodern objects and decor for the home included loud-patterned, usually plastic surfaces; strange proportions, vibrant colors and weird angles; and a vague-at-best relationship between form and function.
ORIGINS OF POSTMODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
CHARACTERISTICS OF POSTMODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
POSTMODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
VINTAGE POSTMODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
Critics derided postmodern design as a grandstanding bid for attention and nothing of consequence. Decades later, the fact that postmodernism still has the power to provoke thoughts, along with other reactions, proves they were not entirely correct.
Postmodern design began as an architectural critique. Starting in the 1960s, a small cadre of mainly American architects began to argue that modernism, once high-minded and even noble in its goals, had become stale, stagnant and blandly corporate. Later, in Milan, a cohort of creators led by Ettore Sottsass and Alessandro Mendini — a onetime mentor to Sottsass and a key figure in the Italian Radical movement — brought the discussion to bear on design.
Sottsass, an industrial designer, philosopher and provocateur, gathered a core group of young designers into a collective in 1980 they called Memphis. Members of the Memphis Group, which would come to include Martine Bedin, Michael Graves, Marco Zanini, Shiro Kuramata, Michele de Lucchi and Matteo Thun, saw design as a means of communication, and they wanted it to shout. That it did: The first Memphis collection appeared in 1981 in Milan and broke all the modernist taboos, embracing irony, kitsch, wild ornamentation and bad taste.
Memphis works remain icons of postmodernism: the Sottsass Casablanca bookcase, with its leopard-print plastic veneer; de Lucchi’s First chair, which has been described as having the look of an electronics component; Martine Bedin’s Super lamp: a pull-toy puppy on a power-cord leash. Even though it preceded the Memphis Group’s formal launch, Sottsass’s iconic Ultrafragola mirror — in its conspicuously curved plastic shell with radical pops of pink neon — proves striking in any space and embodies many of the collective’s postmodern ideals.
After the initial Memphis show caused an uproar, the postmodern movement within furniture and interior design quickly took off in America. (Memphis fell out of fashion when the Reagan era gave way to cool 1990’s minimalism.) The architect Robert Venturi had by then already begun a series of plywood chairs for Knoll Inc., with beefy, exaggerated silhouettes of traditional styles such as Queen Anne and Chippendale. In 1982, the new firm Swid Powell enlisted a group of top American architects, including Frank Gehry, Richard Meier, Stanley Tigerman and Venturi to create postmodern tableware in silver, ceramic and glass.
On 1stDibs, the vintage postmodern furniture collection includes chairs, coffee tables, sofas, decorative objects, table lamps and more.
$14,304Sale Price|20% Off
Cassina Soriana Sofa by Afra and Tobia Scarpa, Italy, 1970s
By Afra & Tobia Scarpa, Cassina
Located in Antwerp, BE
Sofa; Afra; Tobia; Scarpa; Cassina; Soriana; Settee; Couch; Italy; 1970's; Hollywood Regency; Minimalist; Italian Design; Soriana sofa in original upholstery, designed by Afra &...
Wool
Original BoConcept Amsterdam Sofa Cord Couch Recamiere beige
By BoConcept
Located in Berlin, DE
Wir bieten ein wunderschönes, ca. 5 Jahre altes und sehr gut erhaltenes Sofamodul von BoConcept zum Verkauf an. Das Möbel war unter dem Modellnamen "Amsterdam" im Handel und ist hier...
Fabric
$15,963Sale Price|34% Off
Cassina 'Soriana' Four-Seater Sofa by Afra and Tobia Scarpa in Bouclé, 1970's
Located in Antwerp, BE
Cassina; Scarpa; Mid-Century Modern; Boucle Wool; Afra & Tobia Scarpa; Post-Modern; Postmodern Design; 1970s Design; Italy; Italian Design; Manufactured by Cassina in the 1970s, ...
Chrome
1980s Directional Five-Piece Chrome Frame Modular Sofa in Élitis Cotton Velvet
Located in Miami, FL
A stunning 1980s five-piece modular designer sofa by Directional, newly restored from the inside out. Each module is encased in polished chrome that defines the piece’s bold silhouet...
Chrome
Original Ligne Roset Sofa Prado Couch Christian Werner Stoff grau
By Ligne Roset
Located in Berlin, DE
nkissen und die damit einfache Verwandlung in ein Daybed. In unseren anderen Anzeigen bieten wir zudem einen passenden Ottoman und zwei speziell für das Modell entworfene Couchtische...
Steel
$10,500Sale Price|30% Off
Monumental 1980s 3 Piece Sofa by Steve Chase
By Martin Brattrud, Steve Chase, A. Rudin
Located in Las Vegas, NV
This MASSIVE 3 piece sofa by Steve Chase is a sight to behold. Measuring in at just under 15 feet across, it is a real statement maker. The slightly asym...
Fabric
Convertible Postmodern Design Sofa by Bonaldo, Red Fabric, Italy circa 1980
By Bonaldo
Located in Regensburg, DE
Extraordinary Postmodern two-seater design sofa "Arnold" by Bonaldo in red fabric. Large curved back cushion and 2 seat cushions on a stainless steel frame with wooden feet. The or...
Stainless Steel
1990s Rare Poltromec Italia Leather Sculptural Space Age Sofa Loveseat, Set of 2
By Poltromec
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Transport yourself back to the sleek and sophisticated 1990s with this exquisite deep purple, navy blue and lime green leather sofa and love seat. The ultra rare pieces exudes an air...
Steel
Waterfall Arm Sofa by Interior Crafts
Located in Chicago, IL
c. 1980s. USA. Made in Chicago by Interior Crafts. Reupholstered in blue lamb chop fabric by Kramer
Fabric
"Soriana" Sofa by Afra and Tobia Scarpa for Cassina, Italy 1969
By Cassina, Afra & Tobia Scarpa
Located in Utrecht, NL
The iconic “Soriana” three-seater sofa was designed by the Italian designer duo, Afra and Tobia Scarpa in 1969. Besides its innovative manufacturing, visually, Soriana brings sophist...
Metal
Vladimir Kagan “Arc” Sofa for Directional, 1990s
By Vladimir Kagan, Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Vladimir Kagan “Arc” Sofa for Directional, 1990s, fully restored in a wool velvet. Very good condition
Velvet
Contemporary Bronze and Mohair Velvet Curved Sofa by Pierre Salagnac, France
Located in London, GB
Élan Curved Sofa by Pierre Salagnac Material: 24K gold-plated bronze, mohair velvet Dimensions: 240 x 120 cm – H 85 cm Year: 2025 Designed for the Creation Grant awarded by the Gran...
Gold, Bronze
$22,098 / item
Jell Sofa by Alter Ego Studio
Located in Geneve, CH
Jell Sofa by Alter Ego Studio Dimensions: D 120 x W 260 x H 85 cm. Materials: Wooden frame, high resistance foam, upholstery fabric B108 by SAHCO (10...
Stone
Canapé Modèle 54 par Gae Aulenti pour Knoll – Restauration Bonjour Gallery
By Knoll, Gae Aulenti
Located in Rouen, FR
Canapé deux places Modèle 54, conçu par Gae Aulenti dans les années 1970 pour Knoll International. Icône du design post-moderniste italien, ce modèle se distingue par sa structure tu...
Metal
$10,050Sale Price|25% Off
'Cannaregio' Modular Sofa by Gaetano Pesce for Cassina, Italy, 1980s
By Cassina, Gaetano Pesce
Located in Antwerp, BE
'Cannaregio' sofa, a vibrant and versatile creation by Italian designer Gaetano Pesce for Cassina. Originally conceived in 1987, this sofa exudes playfulness, adaptability, and a bur...
Fabric
Memphis 'Lido' Sofa by Michele De Lucchi, Colorful Design, 1982
Located in Tinton Falls, NJ
Designed by Michele De Lucchi in 1982, this superb object of functional decor will offer a comfortable seat to an eclectic interior, while also being a magnificent colorful accent to...
Steel
21st Century Conde Sofa in Bouclé by Mavo Atelier, Handmade in Portugal
By Mavo Atelier
Located in Trofa, PT
Evoking a bold and charismatic presence, the Conde Sofa showcases a robust, geometric profile, softened by gentle curves that add architectural lightness to the sofa’s visual weight....
Brass
$5,960Sale Price|20% Off
1980s Preview Purple Sculptural Biomorphic Cloud Sofa
By Preview
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning, purple microfiber cloud sofa you could hope to find. Outstanding design is exhibited throughout. The beautiful sofa is statemen...
Upholstery, Wood
$6,028 / item
Marshmallow Sofa by Rejo Studio
Located in Geneve, CH
Marshmallow sofa by Rejo Studio Dimensions: D 200 x W 85 x H 40 cm Materials: Chenille upholstery, wood structure. REJO is a design studio based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Ist...
Upholstery, Wood
Paul Evans Inspired Cubist Chrome Loveseat Or Sofa
By R & Y Augousti, Paul Evans, (after) Jean Michel Frank, Karl Springer, Milo Baughman
Located in Houston, TX
Paul Evans Inspired Cubist Chrome Loveseat Or Sofa. Offered is an outstanding Paul Evans style 62 inch loveseat or sofa with a stunning cubist design. This great piece retains the or...
Chrome
Bucefalo Sofa by Daniele Canova, Black Minimalist Multifunction Design, 2010s
By Zaha Hadid, Ron Arad, Marc Newson, Karim Rashid
Located in Paris, FR
Bucefalo Sofa by Daniele Canova Rare Italian Minimalist Design – Sculptural Multifunction Sofa Inspired by Bucephalus, the legendary black horse tamed only by Alexander the Great, t...
Metal
Carlo Scarpa “Cornaro” Two-seater Sofa for Gavina, Ivory Velvet, 1973
By Gavina, Carlo Scarpa
Located in Lonigo, Veneto
Carlo Scarpa “Cornaro” sofa for Gavina, wood and ivory velvet, 1973. The Cornaro sofa represents a sublime exemplification of the harmony be...
Velvet, Foam, Wood
$6,250Sale Price|50% Off
1980s Weiman Pucci Style Curved Tufted Channel Biomorphic Kidney Sofa
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
The beautiful rare sofa is statement piece which is also extremely comfortable and packed with personality! Just look at the gorgeous curves on this beauty! Bright and vibrant Pucci ...
Upholstery, Wood
1980s Weiman Curved Serpentine Sofa and Swivel Chairs, 3 Pieces
By Directional
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Original rare set of 3, 1980s Iconic serpentine cloud sofa and swivel chairs are packed with personality! Outstanding design is exhibited throughout the monumental form. The Vintage complete set are beyond stunning. Beautiful colors in ultra suede light...
Upholstery, Wood
$24,374 / item
Trave Sofa by Umberto Bellardi Ricci
Located in Geneve, CH
Trave sofa by Umberto Bellardi Ricci Dimensions: D 24" x W 102" x H 16 in Materials: Dedar Boucle fabic, l-beam, brass Umbert...
Brass
$12,484 / item
Fabric Frank Sofa Bed by Amura Lab
Located in Geneve, CH
Fabric Frank Sofa Bed by Amura Lab Dimensions: W 247 x D 95 x H 80 cm Materials: FRAME: solid wood and multiply SUSPENSIONS: Elastic belts in rubber and polypropylene SEATS: Polyuret...
Metal
$43,590 / item
White MRS 3 Sofa by Plyus Furniture
Located in Geneve, CH
White MRS 3 Sofa by Plyus Furniture Dimensions: D 160 x W 310 x H 80 cm Materials: Wood, HR foam, polyester wadding, fabric upholstery. “MRS 3” sofa. With love to my favorite desig...
Upholstery, Wood
$28,162 / item
Alfie Sofa by Melis Tatlicibasi
Located in Geneve, CH
Alfie Sofa by Melis Tatlicibasi. Dimensions: W 300 x D 100 x H 80 cm. Materials: Natural wood base painted, Upholstery. Natural wood base painted in Brass, Silver, Gold, or lacquere...
Leather, Upholstery, Wood
1980s Cloud Sofa, attributed to Weiman
By Weiman
Located in Houston, TX
Offered is a stunning curvaceous sofa, circa 1980s, attributed to the Weiman company (though label no longer present). We offer this gorgeous sofa in the original fabric but could be...
Fabric, Wood
Italian Modular Daybeds in Faux Shearling, Mario Bellini Style, 1975
Located in Wien, AT
A striking pair of Italian modular daybeds inspired by the iconic Camaleonda design by Mario Bellini. Combining sculptural presence with everyday functionality, these versatile piece...
Faux Fur
Sculptural Post-Modern Steel Sofa, France 1980s
Located in Aartselaar, BE
Very unique and unusual sofa. Inspired by the Maria Pergay, Michel Boyer era. Sourced in the south of France. Postmodernism. The bench is made of multiple materials, creating a beautiful composition. The base of the sofa is made of steel and has a beautifully patinated leather seat. The back of the sofa is made of resin. Due to the green strokes, it is multi-dimensional. Even if it's a functional sofa, it merely looks like a piece of art. It can both be used as a stand-alone sofa or bench and could be the perfect addition to any residential project, but would also look great in any gallery or high-end retail shop. The minimalist design of this French sofa is perfect for any clientele that wants to create a unique kind of atmosphere. It has a very industrial, apocalyptic, and postmodern feel to it. It is for sure an eye-catcher! Please note that it is a heavy object. Check out Daddy Deco...
Steel
Vladimir Kagan “Matinee” Sofa in 100% Alpaca
By American Leather, Vladimir Kagan
Located in Chicago, IL
Vintage, signed - excellent restored condition. This piece has been fully reupholstered in a 100% alpaca fabric
Fabric
Postmodern Serpentine Sofa Set with Glass-Top Cocktail Table - 4 Piece Set
Located in Chicago, IL
Postmodern Vladimir Kagan Style Serpentine Sofa Set with Glass-Top Cocktail Table - 4 Piece Set The Postmodern Vladimir Kagan Style Serpentine Sofa Set with Glass-Top Cocktail Table is a stunning 4-piece ensemble that embodies the unique design sensibilities of Vladimir Kagan. Crafted in Italy during the 1980s, this set includes a serpentine sofa, two settees, and a versatile side table, allowing for various seating configurations and decor arrangements. The settees and side table offer flexibility for your preferred layout, providing the opportunity to create a fun and inviting living space. These pieces are upholstered in a beige and sienna faux suede, giving them a warm and inviting look. The round glass top on the side table adds a touch of elegance and functionality to the set. This ensemble showcases the Postmodern design aesthetics of the era and is a remarkable addition to any contemporary or vintage-inspired interior. Circa: 1980’s Dimensions: Sofa H: 34.25” W: 80” D: 36” Seat H: 16” Seat D: 22” 2 Settees with Side...
Faux Leather, Glass
Giorgetti “Maharaja” Settee by Antonello Mosca, Italian Modern
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A refined “Maharaja” settee designed by Antonello Mosca and masterfully crafted in Italy by Giorgetti, one of the world’s premier luxury furniture houses. This sculptural two-seat so...
Fabric, Wood
Doublet sofa by Rob Parry for Gelderland, circa 1960
By Rob Parry
Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR
Doublet bench designed by Dutch designer Rob Parry in the 1950s. This versatile sofa effortlessly transforms into a single bed, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetic appea...
Metal
Italian Modular Sofa by Piero Lissoni for Knoll Avio System with Marble Base
By Piero Lissoni, Knoll
Located in Byron Bay, NSW
Designed by Piero Lissoni for Knoll, this rare configuration of the Avio modular sofa was produced in the 1980s and reflects the elegance of Italian modernism. Upholstered in soft iv...
Marble, Chrome
Tan Leather Cloud Style Sofa with Lucite Leg by Weiman, c 1980s, Signed
By Weiman
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This beautiful curvy and fluid Post-Modern sofa by Weiman is in soft and luxurious tan colored leather, features a single lucite leg and is signed underneath with a Weiman label. Designed by Robert L. Ebel and produced by Wieman in the 1980s and 90s, this curvaceous sofa was inspired by Vladimir Kagan's designs such as the 'Cloud' sofa by Directional, the 'Serpentine' sofa by Kagan...
Leather, Lucite
$49,915 / item
Verneuil 2 Seats Sofa by Haymann Editions
Located in Geneve, CH
Verneuil 2 Seater Sofa by Haymann Editions Dimensions: D 97 x W 371 x H 80 cm (Dimensions may vary). Materials: Lacquered wood, upholstery. 1 x Module A 1 x Module B 2 x Side tables The Verneuil sofa...
Upholstery, Wood
Postmodern Italian 1980s Sofa, Two-Seat
Located in Antwerp, BE
Vintage 1980s Postmodern two-seat sofa. Sculpted beech frame with aluminum accents. Original warm yellow cream leather cushions. Very good condition, comfortable seat. Dimensions: 1...
Leather, Plywood
Weiman Post Modern Sculptural Chaise Lounge Sofa in Tangerine Wool Upholstery
By Weiman
Located in Saint Louis, MO
There are pieces that furnish a room and there are pieces that alter its atmosphere entirely and this sculptural Weiman chaise created at the height of American postmodernism in the ...
Wool, Upholstery
$3,000Sale Price|20% Off
Italian Black Leather Postmodern Loveseat by i4 Mariani for the Pace Collection
By Pace Collection, i4 Mariani
Located in San Diego, CA
A very nice black leather Postmodern loveseat by I4 Mariani for the Pace Collection, circa late 1980s. The piece is in great condition with super h...
Leather
La Nuova Casa Italia Dreisitzer Who's Perfect Sofa Couch Galileo
By La Nuova Casa (Who's Perfect)
Located in Berlin, DE
Wir bieten ein wunderschönes Design Sofa aus hochwertigem, weißen Leder von Who's Perfect zum Verkauf an. Das Modell nennt sich "Galileo" und wurde von La Nuova Casa Italia im Jahr 2...
Leather
Link-Terra Wicker And Powder-Coated Aluminum Outdoor Meditation Bed by SNOC
Located in Geneve, CH
Link-Terra Wicker And Powder-Coated Aluminum Outdoor Meditation Bed by SNOC Dimensions: Ø 200 x H 63 cm. Materials: Aluminium, wicker, and Luminesce fabric. Link-Terra When designi...
Aluminum
$20,097 / item
Ut 02 Cowhide and Walnut Sofa by Sing Chan
Located in Geneve, CH
Ut 02 Sofa by Sing Chan Dimensions: W 76 x D 135 x H 67 cm Materials: Cowhide, North American Black Walnut, waxing. Sing Chan ( Chinese: 陈星宇/Xingyu Chen), the founder of SINGCHAN D...
Upholstery, Walnut
$17,142 / item
Copacabana Sofa by Duistt
Located in Geneve, CH
Copacabana Sofa by Duistt Dimensions: W 250 x D 98 x H 84 cm Materials: Zinc and Clayton Ivory. With a bohemian look, the Copacabana sofa is the perfect blend of unique style and c...
Fabric, Oak
$8,350
1970s Mohair Sofa
Located in Chicago, IL
this piece is in excellent, restored condition but there is a small flaw in the mohair - see photos for reference
Mohair
Sculptural Tube Sofa by Anna & Carlo Bartoli for Rossi di Albizzate, 1990s Italy
By Rossi di Albizzate, Carlo Bartoli
Located in Zagreb, HR
Rare sculptural postmodern designer sofa model ''Tube'' designed by Anna & Carlo Bartoli for Italian high-end furniture manufacturer Rossi di Albizzate. The sofa features internal t...
Fabric, Foam
Odysseus Fully Upholstered Sofa in White Linen Fabric by OZA Design
Located in Geneve, CH
Odysseus Fully Upholstered Sofa in White Linen Fabric by OZA Design Dimensions: D 112 x W 260 x H 67 cm. SH: 38 cm. Materials: Linen. Available in different material options and fi...
Linen
Preview Post Modern Kidney Shape Sofa
By Preview
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Preview Post Modern Kidney Shape Sofa This sofa measures: 90 wide x 44 deep x 33 inches high, with a seat height of 18.5 and arm height of 27 inches Excellent Vintage Condition. W...
Upholstery
$48,391 / item
Rialto Sofa by Laurameroni
Located in Geneve, CH
Rialto Sofa by Laurameroni Dimensions: W 264 x D 86 x H 75 cm Materials: Cachemire Loro Piana Altai 037 Paprika, gray travertine stone legs. Upholstered sofa featuring four legs in ...
Travertine
Italian modern modular Cannaregio sofa by Gaetano Pesce for Cassina, 1987
By Gaetano Pesce, Cassina
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian modern modular Cannaregio sofa by Gaetano Pesce for Cassina, 1987 Cannaregio model sofa composed of three modules that can be positioned as desired, united or distant. The su...
Fabric, Wood
Glass Sofa by Adrian Pearsall for Craft Associates
By Adrian Pearsall, Craft Associates
Located in Chicago, IL
c. 1970s. USA. Walnut end caps with glass legs. Reupholstered in Designtex floral.
Fabric
Felicerossi Italian Post-Modern Sectional Sofa, 1970s
By Felicerossi
Located in Antwerp, BE
A rare Felicerossi Italian post-modern sectional sofa in brown and beige fabric upholstery, produced in the 1970s. This organically shaped modular model consists of three units that ...
Metal
$11,829 / item
Luke 240 Sofa by Munna
Located in Geneve, CH
Luke 240 Sofa by Munna Dimensions: D 110 x W 240 x H 82 cm. SH: 47 cm. Materials: Wood, foam, and upholstery. Finish: Cotton Velvet, ref. Blue Grey, CV07. Available in all Munna fab...
Upholstery, Foam, Wood
$3,895Sale Price|30% Off
Sublime Fully Restored Art Modern Curved Back Brown Leather Sofa Part of Suite
Located in West Sussex, Pulborough
We are delighted to offer for sale this stunning fully restored vintage hand dyed Cigar brown leather Art modern two-seat sofa which is part of a large suite As mentioned this is ...
Leather
Postmodern Gluon Sofa by Marc Newson for Moroso, 1990s
Located in Kelkheim (Taunus), HE
Object: Three-Seat Sofa Designer: Marc Newson (born 1963) Manufacturer: Moroso, Italy Model: Gluon Period: 1990s Design Year: 1993 Production: Period production, 1990s Materials: Met...
Metal, Aluminum
$11,829 / item
Luke 240 Sofa by Munna
Located in Geneve, CH
Luke 240 Sofa by Munna Dimensions: D 110 x W 240 x H 82 cm. SH: 47 cm. Materials: Wood, foam, and upholstery. Finish: Cotton Velvet. Available in all Munna fabrics except Wild Silk....
Upholstery, Foam, Wood
Caleo-Natural Teak, Rope And Ethereal Fabric Two-Seater Modular Sofa by SNOC
Located in Geneve, CH
Caleo-Natural Teak, Rope And Ethereal Fabric Two-Seater Modular Sofa by SNOC Dimensions: D 100 x W 181 x H 65 cm. SH: 42 cm. Materials: Teak wood, rope, and Ethereal fabric. The Ca...
Fabric, Rope, Teak
Carlo Scarpa “Cornaro” Three-seater Sofa for Gavina, Ivory Linen, 1973
By Carlo Scarpa, Gavina
Located in Lonigo, Veneto
Carlo Scarpa “Cornaro” sofa for Gavina, wood and ivory linen, Italy, 1973. The Cornaro sofa represents a sublime exemplification of the harmony between...
Velvet, Foam, Wood
Adriano Three-Seater Sofa in Splendido Velvet, Matte Horn & Metal by Arcahorn
Located in Geneve, CH
Adriano Three-Seater Sofa in Splendido Velvet, Matte Horn & Metal by Arcahorn Dimensions: D 100 x W 300 x H 88 cm. Materials: Horn, velvet, foam, and burnished metal. Cushions are ...
Other, Metal