The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw sweeping social change and major scientific advances — both of which contributed to a new aesthetic: modernism. Rejecting the rigidity of Victorian artistic conventions, modernists sought a new means of expression. References to the natural world and ornate classical embellishments gave way to the sleek simplicity of the Machine Age. Architect Philip Johnson characterized the hallmarks of modernism as “machine-like simplicity, smoothness or surface [and] avoidance of ornament.”
Early practitioners of modernist design include the De Stijl (“The Style”) group, founded in the Netherlands in 1917, and the Bauhaus School, founded two years later in Germany.
Followers of both groups produced sleek, spare designs — many of which became icons of daily life in the 20th century. The modernists rejected both natural and historical references and relied primarily on industrial materials such as metal, glass, plywood, and, later, plastics. While Bauhaus principals Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created furniture from mass-produced, chrome-plated steel, American visionaries like Charles and Ray Eames worked in materials as novel as molded plywood and fiberglass. Today, Breuer’s Wassily chair, Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona chair — crafted with his romantic partner, designer Lilly Reich — and the Eames lounge chair are emblems of progressive design and vintage originals are prized cornerstones of collections.
It’s difficult to overstate the influence that modernism continues to wield over designers and architects — and equally difficult to overstate how revolutionary it was when it first appeared a century ago. But because modernist furniture designs are so simple, they can blend in seamlessly with just about any type of décor. Don’t overlook them.
$1,700 / item
Bertu Stool, Iris Modern Counter Stool, White Oak
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
This Iris Modern Counter Stool in White Oak is beautifully constructed from solid wood in Ohio, USA. The stool is chunky and modern with a comfortable cushion in the thick weave fabr...
Oak
Industrial Aluminum Bar Stools by Joan Casas i Ortinez for Indecasa, Spain
By Indecasa, Joan Casas Y Ortinez
Located in Doylestown, PA
Set of three industrial aluminum bar stools by Joan Casas i Ortinez for Indecasa, Barcelona, Spain. Ultra sleek set of iconic, sought after stool...
Aluminum
Contemporary Vertere Bar / Counter Top Stool in Oiled Walnut
By Stuart Scott
Located in Trowbridge, Wiltshire
Brand new for 2026 is the Vertere Bar Stool! Turned from solid timber, the Vertere projects an exaggerated sculptural silhouette fully accentuating the stunning beauty of walnut. Ou...
Walnut
1970s Space Age MOD Vanity Stool, Gold-Plated Brass, Black Upholstery
By Louis Sognot
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vanity stool from the 1970s showcases the bold sculptural aesthetic of Space Age MOD design. The frame features thick bent tubular brass in a continuous loop construction, creating a...
Brass
Bertu Stool, Boca Modern Counter Stool with Boucle Seat, Natural Maple
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Please scroll down to read IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS ABOUT OUR STUMPS before purchase! Why buy BERTU HOME stumps? KILN DRIED Our stumps all go through a drying process in our kiln, s...
Maple
Handmade Velvet Stool by Munna Design Studio, Modern Fringes, Customizable
Located in New York, NY
A playful take on classic glamour, this handmade stool brings a distinctive fashion-inspired detail to the space. Its generously proportioned upholstered seat is framed by a softly c...
Silk, Velvet, Wood, Trimming
Bertu Stools, Cicely Modern Counter Stool With Backrest, Sheepskin, White Oak
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
These Sheepskin Counter Stool with Backrest - The Cicely are beautifully constructed from solid white oak in Ohio, USA. These stools are modern...
Oak
Bertu Stool, Cicely Modern Counter Stool with Sheepskin, Caramel White Oak
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
This Modern Cicely Counter Stool with Sheepskin Seat is beautifully constructed from solid white oak in Ohio, USA. It is finished with a beautiful caramel colored commercial grade fi...
Oak
Set of 3 Modern Oak Counter Stools with Leather Seats and Upholstered Backs
By Donghia
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A refined set of three contemporary counter stools crafted in the United States, combining warm natural oak with leather seating and textured upholstered backs. The stools feature a ...
Leather, Fabric, Wood
Bertu Stools, Modern Simple Oak Counter Stools, White Oak, Natural
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
This Simple White Oak Counter Stool is beautifully constructed from solid wood in Ohio, USA. The stool is chunky and modern with a comfortable cushion in the thick weave fabric ...
Oak
$1,950 / item
Lloyd Bar Stool with Leather or Shearling Cushion
Located in Baltimore City, MD
Lloyd Bar Stool by Crump and Kwash Solid wood construction / hand rubbed oil finish / metal rungs / leather wrapped back support / leather wrapped s...
Brass
$320Sale Price|26% Off
Pair of 'Benjamin' Stools by Lisa Norinder for IKEA, 1990's
By IKEA
Located in Bern, BE
Pair of IKEA Benjamin plywood stools designed by Lisa Noringer, 1990's. Made of plywood. Stackable and can be used either as a stool or side table. Modern iconic designs from Ikea. ...
Plywood
Bertu Stool, Cicely Wood Back Counter Stool, White Oak
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
These Wood Back Cicely Counter Stool are beautifully constructed from solid white oak in Ohio, USA. This stool was style-spotted at the Spring 2022 High Point Market. These stools ar...
Oak
Jasper Morrison Hi Pad Counter Stools for Cappellini - Set of Three
By Jasper Morrison, Cappellini
Located in Miami, FL
Set of Three Hi Pad counter stools with foot rests designed by Jasper Morrison for Cappellini. The Hi Pad stool features a seat in beech plywood padded with multi-density polyurethan...
Steel
$3,762Sale Price / item|25% Off
Contemporary Channeled Fleure Bench Laetus multi colours in Velvet with Walnut
By Stuart Scott
Located in Trowbridge, Wiltshire
This Special Edition Fleure Bench comes with its exquisitely tailored flutes in 13 different colours. A departure from the signature one-colour looks of the other Stuart Scott pieces...
Velvet, Walnut
Lloyd Modern Barrel Back Solid Wood Bar or Counter Stool
Located in Baltimore City, MD
Lloyd bar stool Solid wood frame / hand rubbed oil finish / solid brass rungs / leather wrapped back support / recessed leather seat cushion Measure...
Brass, Steel
$320Sale Price|26% Off
Pair of 'BENJAMIN' Stools by Lisa Norinder for IKEA, 1990's
By IKEA
Located in Bern, BE
Pair of IKEA Benjamin plywood stools designed by Lisa Noringer, 1990's. Made of plywood. Stackable and can be used either as a stool or side table. Modern iconic designs from Ikea. ...
Plywood
$1,450 / item
SHAKER Counter Stool by AMBROZIA // COWHIDE
By AMBROZIA
Located in Drummondville, QC
The SHAKER Counter Stool Cowhide is part of AMBROZIA's signature seating family, thoughtfully designed for residential, hospitality and commercia...
Steel, Metal, Brass, Bronze, Nickel
Foot Stool in solid walnut, hand-carved detail three legs
By Project 213A
Located in Macieira de Sarnes, PT
Foot Stool Designed by Project 213A in 2020 The Foot stool is part of the "Foot collection" which is all hand carved by skilled artisans in Northern Portugal. The design was inspire...
Walnut
$1,750 / item
Inez Counter and Barstool by Crump and Kwash
Located in Baltimore City, MD
Inez counter stool and barstool by Crump and Kwash Upholstered seat top / premium foam cushion / solid wood base / hand rubbed oil finish / solid steel construction / durable powder coat finish / 360 degree rotating...
Steel
Joko Counter Stools Designed by Bartoli Design for Kristalia, Made in Italy
By Kristalia, Bartoli Design
Located in Miami, FL
Joko Counter Stool Designed by Bartoli Design for Kristalia, Made in Italy. In total two stools available. Price is per stool.
Steel
$1,340 / item
Pasqualina Counter Stool by Grassi&Bianchi
Located in Milan, IT
This sturdy counter stool features a tubular steel frame completely covered in terra-colored leather and a black, embossed footrest. Black technical fabric covers the metal seat pan....
Leather
Grey Eames Molded Plastic Bar Stool, Herman Miller
By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller
Located in Miami, FL
Grey Eames Molded Plastic Bar Stool by Herman Miller 2020. Price is for one stool. In total 6 stools available.
Chrome
Bertu Counter Stools, White Oak Counter Stool, Arms, Chile Stool
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
This White Oak Chile Counter Stool is beautifully constructed from solid wood in Ohio, USA. The stool is chunky and modern with a comfortable cushion in the thick weave fabric color of your choice. Sleek black metal rods complete the frame for stability, function, and aesthetic. We offer these counter stools in dining seat height or bar height as well. These can be made for outdoor use as well, or other indoor woods. We absolutely love this one! Price is per stool. specs Period/Model: New; Modern Specs: White Oak, Natural Commercial Grade Finish Customizable: Yes! It's what we do :) dimensions H: 33" W: 18.5" D: 19" Seat H: 25" SKU: Bertu Counter Stools...
Oak
Stool/Side Table in Carbon Dyed Cedar by Hinterland Design
Located in Vancouver, BC
Cast-off cedar logs are given second life as a crystalline form. Named Little Gem, the natural beauty of reclaimed wood is harnessed in this side table and sculpture piece where nature informs design. Each Little Gem is hand-shaped and faceted based on the different characteristics of the log used, and variations in wood grain. Top surface and finish further ensure that no two are alike. Left to weather outdoors, this piece will acquire a natural silver finish. Stool is sold as an individual piece. Shown in main image is carbon dyed Western red cedar...
Cedar
Customizable Walnut Finish Counter Stool with Beige Upholstery, Sotto Design
Located in Miami, FL
A Sotto counter stool designed by Uultis Studio with walnut finish, upholstered in beige fabric. The Sotto counter stool is a refined addition to your kitchen island or high-top dining area, bringing a balance of comfort and elegance. Designed by Uultis Studio, this stool features a walnut-finished teak frame that radiates warmth and sophistication. The seat and backrest are upholstered in a wheat-beige fabric with a subtle plain weave, offering a neutral yet textured appeal that complements a wide variety of interior styles. The medium-density foam cushioning provides support for extended use, making it ideal for both casual meals and social gatherings. Its sleek design includes clean lines and a thoughtfully positioned footrest, ensuring both style and practicality. With its counter height, the Sotto stool...
Upholstery, Fabric, Teak
Modern Sleek Counter Stool In Polished Stainless Frame And Performance Velvet
Located in New York, NY
This is a modern and elegant piece designed for both comfort and style. It features a robust stainless steel frame in that ensures durability and longevity. The stool is characterize...
Stainless Steel
$1,850 / item
Bertu Counter Stools, Boca Uno Walnut Counter Stool
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Counter Stools, Boca Uno Walnut Counter Stool Please scroll down to read IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS ABOUT OUR STUMPS before purchase! Why buy B...
Wood, Walnut
$480Sale Price / item|20% Off
Modern leather sling iron frame counter height Stools
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Modern counter height Trace stools in brown leather with black iron frame by Mark Daniel Design. Great leather sling minimalist design with black lacquer steel frames good pre owned ...
Iron, Steel
Bertu Counter Stool, Cicely Modern Sheepskin Counter Stool, White Oak
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Counter Stool, Cicely Modern Sheepskin Counter Stool, White Oak This Modern Cicely Counter Stool with Sheepskin Seat is beautifully con...
Sheepskin, Wood, Oak
$750 / item
Bertu Stools, Boca Dos Wood Stool, Solid
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Stools, Boca Dos Wood Stool, Solid Please scroll down to read IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS ABOUT OUR STUMPS before purchase! Why buy BERTU HOME stumps? KILN DRIED Our stumps all...
Wood, Maple
$995 / item
Layer 095 Stool by Michael Geldmacher
Located in Milan, IT
This exquisite stool is a spot-on addition to rustic and warm-toned modern decors. Its frame in solid ash is tinted in mahogany brown, hue preserving the timeless charm of top-rate t...
Textile, Ash
Bertu Counter Stools, White Oak Counter Stool, Chile Stool
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Counter Stools, White Oak Counter Stool, Chile Stool This White Oak Chile Counter Stool is beautifully constructed from solid wood...
Wood, Oak
$1,650 / item
Bertu Bar Stool, Cicely Modern White Oak Bar Stool
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Bar Stool, Cicely Modern White Oak Bar Stool This Modern White Oak Bar Stool - The Cicely is beautifully constructed from solid wood in Ohio...
Wood, Oak
Lennox Stool, Small Wood Stool by Christian Siriano
Located in New York, NY
Made to order wood stool designed by Christian Siriano. Red oak Measure: Seat width: 12”.
Oak
David Rockwell for Knoll Easy Stools – 5 Bar Height & 1 Low Stool
By David Rockwell, Knoll
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Complete set of five bar-height stools and one low stool from the Easy Collection, designed by David Rockwell for Knoll International. Featuring a clean, contemporary design, each st...
Steel
Contemporary Sleek Barstool with Solid Wood Frame In Walnut Finish
Located in New York, NY
Product Description: Introducing a sophisticated and versatile range of seating furniture that combines modern design with high-quality materials and ergonomic comfort. Whether for c...
Fabric, Wood
Wood Soaped Oak Bar Stool with Natural Tanned Leather Seat
By Mater
Located in Chicago, IL
The Mater High stool is designed by the Danish architect duo Space Copenhagen and is regarded as a New Danish Classic. With its organic yet Minimalist...
Leather, Oak
Modern Vintage IKEA Urban Barstools Made in Italy by Carl Ojerstam a Pair
By Carl Öjerstam, IKEA
Located in Topeka, KS
Awesome Early 21st Century vintage IKEA Urban Barstools Made in Italy by Carl Ojerstam a pair composed of chrome plated steel frame & shafts with a 360 swivel & height adjusting hand...
Steel, Chrome
Craftassociates Counter Stools, Cane Counter Height Stools, Walnut and Leather
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Craftassociates counter stools, cane counter height stools, walnut and leather, Craftassociates counter stools, cane counter height stools, walnut and l...
Walnut, Cane
$3,200 / item
Aire Stool in Walnut and COM by Estudio Persona
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Aire Stool embraces the relationship between space and form, using open areas to inspire a sense of connection between its elements. A handcrafted wooden base provides solid supp...
Lambskin, Oak
$1,750 / item
Outdoor Chile Bar Stools
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
These Outdoor Chile Bar Stools are beautifully constructed from solid wood in Ohio, USA. The bar stool is chunky and modern with a comfortable cushion ...
Mahogany
Contemporary Barstool with Seaming Details on the Front & Back
Located in New York, NY
This barstool projects pure haute couture, with its sensuous feminine outline and voluptuous shape. Each exquisite curve features detailed seaming through the front to back, standing...
Brass
$1,550 / item
Modern Counter Stools in Walnut, Cicely Collection
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
These walnut counter height cicely stools are beautifully constructed from solid walnut in Ohio, USA. This stool was style-spotted ...
Walnut
$1,550 / item
Walnut Counter Height Cicely Stools
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
These Walnut Counter Height Cicely stools are beautifully constructed from solid walnut in Ohio, USA. This stool was style-spotted ...
Walnut
$1,750 / item
Inez Counter Stool by Crump and Kwash
Located in Baltimore City, MD
Inez Counter stool by Crump and Kwash Carved, solid wood seat, base, and under cap / hand rubbed oil finish / solid steel construction / durable powder coat finish / 360 degree rotating...
Steel
Set of 3 'Méandre' Counter Stools by Design Frères, in COL
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Méandre™ counter stool by DESIGN FRÈRES®, in COL. Upholstered firm but comfortable. Requires 1.5 yards COL total for the set of 3, to be sent to our mailing address after your...
Steel
$911 / item
Pine Wood Stool, Sweden, 1970s
Located in Værløse, DK
Swedish Modern Pine Stool from the 1970s. A beautiful stool or sidetable to an exquisite home. * Four-leg stool in solid pine * Country: Sweden * Year: est. 1970s * Condition: Goo...
Pine
Customizable Counter Height Stool with Black Finish and Upholstery, Ura Line
Located in Miami, FL
A Ura counter height stool designed by Uultis Studio with black matte finish and black fabric upholstery. The Ura counter stool showcases a harmoniou...
Fabric, Upholstery, Wood
Pair of Retro Style Counter Height Stools With Solid Wood Frames
Located in New York, NY
This piece seamlessly combines a retro vibe with contemporary lines, offering both functionality and style. The design features exposed legs that support a wing-shaped padded backres...
Brass
Horsehair Bench/Stool Modern by J.M. Szymanski, Blackened Iron
Located in Bronx, NY
HORSE HAIR BENCH NO. 3 J.M. Szymanski D. 2022 Contemporary furniture at its finest. Horsehair textile and blackened iron are combined to create an exciting juxtaposition of ele...
Iron, Steel
Colorful Adjustable Stool by Designer Koba with Solid Wood Seat
By Koba
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Model 04 distinguishes itself from the other members of Series 01 with its unique bled of industrial design and simplistic charm. Featuring an adjustable seat and solid wood features...
Steel
Designer Duistt Modern Counter Stools in Boucle Fabric & Brass
By Duistt
Located in New York, NY
This contemporary stool is a timeless and understated luxury piece. Constructed with lacquered iron frame and off-white boucle fabric. The brushed brass detailing makes this stool a ...
Brass, Iron
Ura Counter Stool with Teak Wood Finish Base and Light Gray Upholstered Seat
Located in Miami, FL
Modern style counter stool by Uultis with teak wood finish base and light gray upholstered seat. Introducing the Ura counter stool by Uultis, a sophi...
Fabric, Upholstery, Wood, Teak
Contemporary Barstool with Seaming Details on the Back
Located in New York, NY
The front of this barstool is composed as a verse, with a smooth seat, backrest and legs. The scene is set for the explosion of the chorus, bursting from its quilted back, infused wi...
Velvet, Wood
Horsehair Stool by J.M. Szymanski, Blackened Iron, Contemporary USA
Located in Bronx, NY
HORSE HAIR STOOL J.M. Szymanski d. 2018 Contemporary furniture at its finest. Horsehair textile and blackened iron are combined to create an excitin...
Steel, Iron
Bertu Counter Stools, White Oak Counter Stool, Cicely
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Counter Stools, White Oak Counter Stool, Cicely These White Oak Counter Stools - The Cicely are beautifully constructed from solid white oak ...
Wood, Oak
Pair of contemporary shagreen covered stools by R&Y Augousti, Paris
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Pair of matching stools custom made by R&Y Augousti in Paris, France. Made of fine materials including signature shagreen wrapping both sides of the stool, playing off the materi...
Leather, Shagreen, Palmwood
$750 / item
Bertu Stools, Boca Uno Dining Stool, Modern
Located in Oak Harbor, OH
Bertu Stools, Boca Uno Dining Stool, Modern Please scroll down to read IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS ABOUT OUR STUMPS before purchase! Why buy BERTU HOME stumps? KILN DRIED Our stumps ...
Wood, Maple
B. Chassang brown stoneware ceramic stool or low table Torsade 2024 32 cm
Located in Neuilly-en- sancerre, FR
Brigitte Chassang Large stoneware ceramic stool or low table by B. Chassang Modele : Torsade Realised in 2024 Unique handmade ceramic piece Woodfiring stoneware ceramic colors ...
Ceramic