Iconic chairs of 20th-century design

This ranking explores the most influential furniture designs of the 20th century, showcasing iconic chairs that redefined modern living. Discover how pioneering designers utilized innovative materials like chrome, molded plastics, and plywood to create timeless pieces. These influential furniture designs continue to inspire and shape contemporary interior spaces, reflecting their enduring legacy in modern design. Explore the evolution of chair design through the lens of twentieth-century innovation and style.

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  1. 1

    Panton Chair (1960)

    165 Global Votes
    • First molded plastic chair from a single piece

      (+3)

    The Panton Chair is a classic in furniture history, being the first plastic chair manufactured in a single piece with a cantilever design. Its vibrant, bold, and futuristic design, ahead of its time, continues to be produced by Vitra in different colors and versions.

  2. 2

    DSW Chair (1950)

    158 Global Votes
    • First mass-produced plastic chair

      (+4)

    Winner of MOMA's 'Low-Cost Furniture Design' competition, the DSW Chair combines plastic and wood with great appeal. Its design remains completely current, and Vitra continues to produce limited and exclusive editions, maintaining its relevance in the market.

  3. 3

    Wishbone Chair

    68 Global Votes
    • Iconic symbol of Danish furniture design

      (+4)

    A classic of Scandinavian design, the Wishbone Chair is praised for its elegance, simplicity, and natural appeal. Its design has endured for over 70 years, proving to be a truly timeless design that remains highly valued today.

  4. 4

    Tulip Chair (1955)

    11 Global Votes
    • One of the first one-legged chairs

      (+4)

    The Tulip Chair broke design rules by eliminating traditional legs, creating a revolutionary design ideal for minimalist interiors. It is considered part of the 'Space Age' for its futuristic use of curves and artificial materials, maintaining its visual impact.

  5. 5

    LC4 Chaise Lounge Chair (1928)

    10 Global Votes
    • Dubbed the "relaxing machine"

      (+4)

    This chaise lounge is a statement of principles where form follows function without sacrificing beauty. Its ergonomic design and adjustable structure keep it contemporary and relevant, redefining the concept of rest.

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  7. 6

    Ant Chair (1952)

    7 Global Votes
    • First Danish chair made with a single curved plywood shell

      (+2)

    The Ant Chair is a milestone in Danish and international design, notable for its lightness, stability, and ease of transport. Its elegant form disguises remarkable strength and comfort, making it an iconic and functional piece.

  8. 7

    Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman (1956)

    4 Global Votes
    • Exceptional craftsmanship

      (+4)

    This set is one of the most recognizable and celebrated furniture designs of the 20th century, synonymous with supreme comfort and understated luxury. Vitra continues to manufacture it using the same methods, ensuring its quality and its status as a design icon.

  9. 8

    Wiggle Chair (1972)

    3 Global Votes
    • Made from humble material (cardboard)

      (+4)

    The Wiggle Chair is an example of radicalism and experimentation with unexpected materials in design, demonstrating that design could be provocative without losing functionality. It remains a conversation piece and a milestone in furniture history, standing out for its originality.

  10. 9

    Thonet Chair No. 14 (1859)

    1 Global Votes
    • Good-looking and inexpensive

      (+4)

    This chair is a milestone in the history of industrial design, being the first classic of mass production. Its timeless design and simple construction keep it relevant in various settings, from cafes to homes.

  11. 10

    The Red and Blue Chair (1918)

    0 Global Votes
    • Central position in design history

      (+4)

    This chair is a fundamental piece of the De Stijl movement, representing a three-dimensional exploration of modern art. Its radical nature and use of primary colors make it an object of study and admiration in design history.

  12. 11

    Wassily Chair (1925)

    0 Global Votes
    • Cornerstone of modern design

      (+2)

    The Wassily Chair revolutionized furniture manufacturing by being the first tubular chair on the market. Its minimalist and functional design has made it a timeless reference in modern decoration, setting a precedent for contemporary design.

  13. 12

    Cesca Chair (1928)

    0 Global Votes
    • Redefined furniture design

      (+4)

    A classic of the Modern Movement and the Bauhaus, the Cesca Chair stands out for its innovative combination of tubular steel and natural materials like wicker. Its balanced design makes it versatile and adaptable to a wide range of interiors, from the most modern to the traditional.

  14. 13

    Diamond Chair (1952)

    0 Global Votes
    • Functional sculpture

      (+4)

    The Diamond Chair is a fusion of art and functionality, with a welded steel structure that is light, strong, and ergonomic. It offers a highly valued sense of elasticity and lightness, making it perfect for both indoors and outdoors.

  15. 14

    Egg Chair

    0 Global Votes
    • Iconic furniture design

      (+4)

    The Egg Chair is a photographic icon of the 20th century and a symbol of Scandinavian design's elegance and comfort. Its enveloping silhouette offers privacy and comfort, making it a distinctive and highly desired piece in any space.