WORKPLACE CLASSICS: The Barcelona Chair

This Workplace Classics Series pays homage to the truly timeless pieces of furniture that have become iconic in workplaces worldwide and which are able to stay current no matter which era. Pieces that lend their design classic status to any interior by adding true sophistication.

We start with the Barcelona Chair, designed by Lilly Reich and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1929. A masterpiece of modern furniture design that has stood the test of time. This almost 100-year-old iconic chair, with its sleek lines, minimalist aesthetic, and luxurious materials, has become a symbol of sophistication and elegance, gracing the spaces of homes, offices, and even museums around the world.

Origins

The Barcelona Chair was born out of a collaboration between two visionary designers, Lilly Reich and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Mies van der Rohe, a German architect and designer, was a leading figure in the development of modernist architecture, while Reich was a talented designer and interior architect. The chair was originally designed for the German Pavilion at the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona, hence its name.

Design and Features

The Barcelona Chair’s design is characterised by its simplicity, comfort, and attention to detail. The chair features a chrome-plated steel frame, upholstered in premium leather, with a cushion and headrest that appear to float above the frame. The chair’s minimalist silhouette is both elegant and understated, making it a versatile piece that can complement a wide range of interior styles.

Materials and Craftsmanship

The chair is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials. The frame is made from chrome-plated steel, which provides strength, durability, and a touch of luxury. The leather upholstery is carefully selected for its softness, texture, and rich colour.

Influence and Legacy

“I feel that it must be possible to harmonise the old and new in our civilisation” – Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

The Barcelona Chair has had a profound influence on modern furniture design, inspiring countless designers and architects around the world. Its minimalist aesthetic, comfort, and luxurious materials have made it a benchmark for modern furniture design.

The chair’s popularity has endured for generations, with designers and architects continually referencing its design principles in their own work. The Barcelona Chair has also become a cultural icon, featuring in films, literature, and art, symbolising sophistication, elegance, and refinement. An unfortunate side effect of it’s popularity, particularly here in Asia has been the proliferation of cheap copies in the market, but usually of substantially inferior quality but reflected in the price.

In Asia, where cutting edge design and luxury living are highly valued, the Barcelona Chair continues to be a popular choice for front-of-house spaces in offices and public areas. Design rights and manufacturing of the Barcelona Chair is owned by Knoll, so those seeking to add this design classic to a Corporate Interior then do connect with your local Knoll / MillerKnoll team or their distributors.

All images courtesy of Knoll Inc.