Pair of Model "217" Continent Armchairs by Asko, Finland 1930s
Pair of Model "217" Continent Armchairs by Asko, Finland 1930s
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
These chairs were created by Asko, the Finnish furniture manufacturing company founded in 1918 by Aukusti Asko Avonius, known for the production of high-quality furniture. By 1930, the company had grown to be the largest furniture chain in Finland and the largest supplier of furniture in the Nordic countries. This pair of Model “217” or “Continent” armchairs belongs to this period of Finnish furniture design, combining the generous comfort of traditional upholstered seating with a more restrained and modern appearance.
These armchairs embody comfort and elegance in equal measure. With their soft curves and rounded bodies, they cradle the sitter in a harmonious and just as stylish embrace. The defining feature of these lounge chairs is their enveloping design, which creates a sense of cosy intimacy and warmth. Each chair has a broad, rounded backrest that curves forward at the sides into the upholstered arms. The soft curves that define their shape not only evoke inviting comfort but also serve a practical purpose, as the curvature follows the natural contours of the human body. The chairs appear open and welcoming thanks to the arms and backs curving outwards, while the deep seats and generous padding emphasise their comfortable character. The soft outline of the design remains clearly defined, enhanced by the dark moss-green upholstery. The fabric has a rich, textured surface that accentuates the gentle curves and gives the chairs a warm, inviting appearance. The seats extend forward between the rounded arms, with their upholstered fronts creating a uniform image. Short wooden legs support the chairs, their warm brown colour contrasting beautifully with the green fabric. In the absence of additional ornamentation, the focus stays on the distinctive shape, supported by functionality and comfort.
As part of Asko's furniture production, the model “217” represents an interesting chapter in the development of modern seating. With their cosy appearance, distinctive bodies and appealing material combination, the armchairs bring warmth and character to an interior while retaining the comfort and practicality for which they were designed.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the wood has minor scratches, dents and discolouration. The chairs have recently been reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
27.76 in W x 31.89 in D x 27.95 in H; Seat height 15.75 in; Seat depth 20.67 in; Arm height 24.41 in
70.5 cm W x 81 cm D x 71 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 52.5 cm; Arm height 62 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
The “Laila” model by the Finnish designer, Ilmari Lappalainen, originates from 1948, with the earliest original drawings kept in the Lahti City Museum in their Lappalainen Collection.
This pair of armchairs are from the Finnish designer’s most famous series called “Laila”. The design became sought after by collectors even in its production time, which is quite rare in the case of Nordic mid-century modern furniture. Lappalainen was a renowned designer, famous for his designs’ comfort. Some of his designs even received medical approval because they had such a good seating, that it prevented back problems. These armchairs have a cosy modern style, modelled on the Swedish and Danish furniture of the time, including the round edges and generous seat cushions and back with five tufted buttons. The bodies have the classic Nordic look, which explains the contemporary popularity of these armchairs both among the public and museums. The modern aesthetic is further elevated by the soft sheepskin upholstery that complements the shape and the wooden, tapered legs as well.
Wood is omnipresent in the Nordics, and Finnish woodworking is world-famous for its traditions. These chairs were created for Asko, the Finnish furniture manufacturing company founded in 1918 by Aukusti Asko Avonius, known for the production of high-quality furniture. By 1930, the company had developed into the largest furniture chain in Finland and the largest supplier of furniture in the Scandinavian countries. Favourites of this time included Ilmari Lappalainen’s present Laila armchairs.
Condition:
In good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the material, the chairs may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
32.67 in W x 34.64 in D x 34.44 in H; Seat height 17.71 in
83 cm W x 88 cm D x 87.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This pair of “Polar” lounge chairs was designed by the eminent Finnish designer, Esko Pajamies, and produced by Lahden Lepokalusto Oy Finland during the 1960s.
These leather chairs feature a half moon shaped backrest and comfortable, aesthetically pleasing cushions. The sitting cushions are tufted, and along with the upholstered armrests, have a beautiful patina. The strong and sturdy wooden frame provides a beautiful contrast to the black leather, and with the chrome plated steel connections supporting the curved armrests, it gives these chairs a modern look.
The legs have similar chrome plated steel details, which provide the chairs with an almost floating appearance. The open wooden frame further contributes to the spacious feel of the design. The chairs have their original black leather upholstery.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Piping has some minor repairs. Leather has some minor marks. Note: Although from the same source, the items differ a little bit in height. These chairs come with their original leather or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.53 in W x 40.56 in D x 25.99 in H; seat height 16.34 in
75 cm W x 103 cm D x 66 cm H; seat height 41.5 cm
Literature:
Arkkitehti-lehti magazine, 1965.
About the designer:
Esko Lauri Alvari Pajamies (born August 20, 1931 Helsinki - September 26, 1990, Eloúnta, Greece) was a Finnish designer, especially known for his upholstered livingroom and public furniture.
Pajamies graduated as an interior architect in 1954, and established his own design studio in 1961. In the 1960s, Pajamies designed the “Bonanza” couch, which combined leather and solid oak, starting the line of his characteristic mixture of materials. The “Koivutaru” armchair made of bent birch at the end of the 1970s. Pajamies’ workshop also designed furniture for the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport's passenger terminal.
The Finnish designer and architect was awarded the State Art Prize in 1979. Besides being active as a designer, Pajamies was an avid Jazz Trumpeter. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
The “Laila” model by the Finnish designer, Ilmari Lappalainen, originates from 1948, with the earliest original drawings kept in the Lahti City Museum in their Lappalainen Collection.
This pair of “nr. 238” armchairs are from the Finnish designer’s most famous series called “Laila”. The design became sought after by collectors even in its production time, which is quite rare in the case of Nordic mid-century modern furniture. Lappalainen was a renowned designer, famous for his designs’ comfort. Some of his designs even received medical approval because they had such a good seating, that it prevented back problems. These armchairs have a cosy modern style, modelled on the Swedish and Danish furniture of the time, including the round edges and generous seat cushions and back with five tufted buttons. The bodies have the classic Nordic look, which explains the contemporary popularity of these armchairs both among the public and museums. The modern aesthetic is further elevated by the soft sheepskin upholstery that complements the shape and the wooden, tapered legs as well.
Wood is omnipresent in the Nordics, and Finnish woodworking is world-famous for its traditions. These chairs were created for Asko, the Finnish furniture manufacturing company founded in 1918 by Aukusti Asko Avonius, known for the production of high-quality furniture. By 1930, the company had developed into the largest furniture chain in Finland and the largest supplier of furniture in the Scandinavian countries. Favourites of this time included Ilmari Lappalainen’s present Laila armchairs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
32.87 in W x 32.87 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 17.51 in
83.5 cm W x 83.5 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 44.5 cm
Literature:
Riitta Miestamo "The Form and Substance of Finnish Furniture", Askon Säätiö, Esan Kirjapaino oy, Lahti 1981.p 65.
About the Designer:
Ilmari Lappalainen (1918 - 2006) was a great Finnish designer whose most active working years were from the end of the 1940s until the end of the 1970s.
Lappalainen first graduated as a teacher of woodworking in 1939, followed by a degree in interior design in 1947. By the end of the school of interior design, he was already working as an intern in Asko and after graduating he got a permanent design position at the company. Lappalainen worked as a teacher and as an interior designer for Asko's department stores, public spaces and hotels.
Lappalainen's most popular products / series are the Laila sofa set, the Seija rocking chair, the lazy castle Rex and the Pulkka armchair. Interestingly, the chairs from the Columna series were sold as health chairs for a long time, because they had such a good ergonomic design, that it prevented back problems. The chairs eventually received medical approval as well. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
The “Laila” model by the Finnish designer Ilmari Lappalainen originates from 1948, with the earliest original drawings kept in the Lahti City Museum in their Lappalainen Collection.
This pair of “nr. 238” armchairs are from the Finnish designer’s most famous series called “Laila”. The design became sought after by collectors even in its production time, which is quite rare in the case of Nordic mid-century modern furniture. Lappalainen was a renowned designer, famous for his designs’ comfort. Some of his designs even received medical approval because they had such a good seating that it prevented back problems. These armchairs have a cosy modern style, modelled on the Swedish and Danish furniture of the time, including the round edges and generous seat cushion and back with tufted buttons. The bodies have the classic Nordic look, which explains the contemporary popularity of these armchairs both among the public and museums. The modern aesthetic is further elevated by the textured, premium upholstery that complements the shape and the wooden, tapered legs as well. Sheepskin is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It elevates the sheer size and shape of the chair, especially its back.
Wood is omnipresent in the Nordics, and Finnish woodworking is world-famous for its traditions. These chairs were created for Asko, the Finnish furniture manufacturing company founded in 1918 by Aukusti Asko Avonius, known for the production of high-quality furniture. By 1930 the company had developed into the largest furniture chain in Finland and the largest supplier of furniture in the Scandinavian countries. After the war, the damage it caused and the new homes of Karelian migrants concentrated production on essential furniture, which the Finnish Ministry of Public Affairs ordered to sell at an affordable price. Favourites of this time included Ilmari Lappalainen’s Laila series.
Condition:
In good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium sheepskin.
Dimensions:
32.67 in W x 34.64 in D x 34.44 in H; Seat height 17.71 in
83 cm W x 88 cm D x 87.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm
Literature:
Riitta Miestamo "The Form and Substance of Finnish Furniture", Askon Säätiö, Esan Kirjapaino oy, Lahti 1981.p 65.
About the Designer:
Ilmari Lappalainen (1918 - 2006) was a great Finnish designer whose most active working years were from the end of the 1940s until the end of the 1970s.
Lappalainen first graduated as a teacher of woodworking in 1939, followed by a degree in interior design in 1947. By the end of the school of interior design, he was already working as an intern in Asko and after graduating he got a permanent design position at the company. Lappalainen worked as a teacher and as an interior designer for Asko's department stores, public spaces and hotels.
Lappalainen's most popular products / series are the Laila sofa set, the Seija rocking chair, the lazy castle Rex and the Pulkka armchair. Interestingly, the chairs from the Columna series were sold as health chairs for a long time, because they had such a good ergonomic design, that it prevented back problems. The chairs eventually received medical approval as well. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This pair of rare oak easy chairs showcases the homely curviness that defined the design of the 1950s in the Nordic countries. Hiort af Ornäs developed the model for his own furniture company, ‘Hiort Tuote Valmistaja Puunveisto Helsinki’, or ‘Hiort Product Manufacturer Puunveisto (woodcarver) Helsinki’.
This chair model’s body has a soft, sculptural shape paired with an ergonomic and firm construction. Hiort af Ornäs was very firm about two things regarding his chair designs: the sitting comfort and that the model must look good from every single angle. Much like the “Pedro” model, these easy chairs easily fulfil these principles, as even from the bottom, they showcase the expertly carved oak structure. The removable seat cushions, framed by the open bodies ensure the sitting comfort. The seats, back- and armrests are all formed from a single piece that has an organic, outward curving look that is highly inviting and stylish. Especially on the armrests, the curves highlight the texture of the velvet upholstery and vice versa. The fabric is most appealing on rounded, curving forms, therefore it is a perfect match for this pair of easy chairs. The legs on the other side have a more straightforward design, creating an interesting contrast with the upholstered bodies. They are gently splayed and bent to support the seats and display the oak’s beautiful, darker shade. The craftsmanship and quality that is to be expected from original Hiort af Ornäs chairs is very apparent.
The seating designs of the architect/designer have been gradually more and more recognized world-wide, which resulted in a recent exhibition titled “Forgotten Ornäs”. Form follows function is a principle of design associated with early and mid-20th century architecture and furniture design, stating that the shape of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function or purpose. This was evidently an important principle for the designer, seen in the design of both the structure and aesthetic elements.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium velvet. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
34.05 in W x 31.49 in D x 30.31 in H; Seat height 18.11 in
86.5 cm W x 80 cm D x 77 cm H; Seat height 46 cm
About the designer:
Carl-Gustaf Vilhelm (nicknamed “Nalle”) Hiort of Ornäs was born on 27 February 1911 and lived most of his life in Tapiola/Espoo in Finland and in his later life moved to Spain. He is remembered as a Finnish interior architect and designer known to be uncompromising.
Before the Finnish wars (1939-1944), Hiort af Ornäs spent his time in Pori, working at Björneborgs Mekaniska Verkstad. He studied at the Helsinki University of Technology to become an architect but never graduated. He did, however, become known as an interior designer, and eventually even more known as a furniture designer.
In 1945, Hiort af Ornäs founded the furniture company Puunveisto Oy, for which he developed versatile techniques for shaping plywood. He started the furniture manufacturing shop on Lauttasaari in Helsinki (Veneentekijäntie 14) together with his brother. The wood shop, showroom, and office were all located in the same building in Helsinki. Rolf Mesterton was the man in charge of producing the furniture, but there were several other carpenters at work in the woodshop. Hiort af Ornäs’s furniture was exhibited and sold by the shop Nupponen who also distributed Olavi Hänninen’s designs, while Puunveisto’s furniture were also sold by Gösta Westerbergs Möbler in Stockholm, Sweden but, in spite of a good selection of chairs, tables and shelves, did not do too well. Since production costs were high, Hiort af Ornäs faced economic troubles. The company was later sold to Nupponen after which Hiort af Ornäs’s interest in the company waned.
Hiort af Ornäs spent his retirement in Spain, and designed several buildings for Fuengirola’s Los Pacos neighbourhood, which has a large Finnish population. His house that he drew and built in Tapiola, Espoo, Finland, ‘Villa Hiort’, still stands and houses some of the designer’s original drawings. It is a beautiful example of 1950s Modernism and the talent of Hiort af Ornäs that brought him recognition that lasts to this day. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
As can be expected from Nordic pieces, functionality and comfort are kept at the core of the design. The construction of these stunning chairs revolves around the use of high-quality materials, and the technical mastery of the era’s European cabinetmakers in creating pieces that are as beautiful as they are practical.
The unique look of the chairs is the result of the use of soft longhair sheepskin for the upholstery, giving the chairs an exquisite appearance. The soft fibers of the lightweight, curly longhair sheepskin drape beautifully over the lounge chairs, while the brown color provides a lot of depth. This pair of infinitely cozy lounge chairs can also be used as accent pieces to break the restrained aesthetic of any minimalist space.
The use of sumptuous materials, the combination of crafts with industrial production, and the obvious influence of the organic in Finnish design all created a stir of excitement during the 20th century. This excitement carries on today thanks to pieces such as these exceptional lounge chairs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been recently re-upholstered in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
31.5 in W x 30.71 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 15.75 in
80 cm W x 78 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 40 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
This set of four of “Polar” lounge chairs was designed by the eminent Finnish designer, Esko Pajamies, and produced by Lahden Lepokalusto Oy Finland during the 1960s.
These leather chairs feature a half moon shaped backrest and comfortable, aesthetically pleasing cushions. The sitting cushions are tufted, and along with the upholstered armrests, have a beautiful patina. The strong and sturdy wooden frame provides a beautiful contrast to the black leather, and with the chrome plated steel connections supporting the curved armrests, it gives these chairs a modern look.
The legs have similar chrome plated steel details, which provide the chairs with an almost floating appearance. The open wooden frame further contributes to the spacious feel of the design. The chairs have their original black leather upholstery.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Piping has some minor repairs. Leather has some minor marks. Note: Although from the same source, the items differ a little bit in height. These chairs come with their original leather or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.53 in W x 40.56 in D x 25.99 in H; seat height 16.34 in
75 cm W x 103 cm D x 66 cm H; seat height 41.5 cm
Literature:
Arkkitehti-lehti magazine, 1965.
About the designer:
Esko Lauri Alvari Pajamies (born August 20, 1931 Helsinki - September 26, 1990, Eloúnta, Greece) was a Finnish designer, especially known for his upholstered livingroom and public furniture.
Pajamies graduated as an interior architect in 1954, and established his own design studio in 1961. In the 1960s, Pajamies designed the “Bonanza” couch, which combined leather and solid oak, starting the line of his characteristic mixture of materials. The “Koivutaru” armchair made of bent birch at the end of the 1970s. Pajamies’ workshop also designed furniture for the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport's passenger terminal.
The Finnish designer and architect was awarded the State Art Prize in 1979. Besides being active as a designer, Pajamies was an avid Jazz Trumpeter. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
These “Grand Pedro” armchairs show the curviness that defined the design of the 1950s. Hiort af Ornäs developed this model for his own furniture company, Puunveisto Oy.
The “Grand Pedro” model has a soft, sculptural shape paired with an ergonomic construction, which is very representative of the designer’s beliefs. Hiort af Ornäs was very firm about two things regarding his chair designs: the sitting comfort and that the model must look good from every single angle. “Pedro” fulfills these principles, for as even from the bottom, it showcases the elongated, tapered back legs that are visually captivating. The bodies have a welcoming look, with outward curving armrests and slightly bent backrests. In service of utmost comfort are the seat cushions that ensure sitting comfort, and the upholstery that is extremely soft. The light colour and texture of the fabric complements the lacquered wood legs beautifully, highlighting their sculptural lines.
The craftsmanship and quality provided by Hiort af Ornäs is very visible in the “Pedro” collection that includes a sofa besides these chairs. The seating designs of the architect/designer have been gradually more and more recognized world-wide, which resulted in the recent exhibition titled “Forgotten Ornäs”.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium wool-mohair blend fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
27.95 in W x 28.15 in D x 32.28 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 22.64 in
71 cm W x 71.5 cm D x 82 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 57.5 cm
About the designer:
Carl-Gustaf Vilhelm (nicknamed “Nalle”) Hiort of Ornäs was born on 27 February 1911 and lived most of his life in Tapiola/Espoo in Finland and in his later life moved to Spain. He is remembered as a Finnish interior architect and designer known to be uncompromising.
Before the Finnish wars (1939-1944), Hiort af Ornäs spent his time in Pori, working at Björneborgs Mekaniska Verkstad. He studied at the Helsinki University of Technology to become an architect but never graduated. He did, however, become known as an interior designer, and eventually even more known as a furniture designer.
In 1945, Hiort af Ornäs founded the furniture company Puunveisto Oy, for which he developed versatile techniques for shaping plywood. He started the furniture manufacturing shop on Lauttasaari in Helsinki (Veneentekijäntie 14) together with his brother. The wood shop, showroom and office were all located in the same building in Helsinki. Rolf Mesterton was the man in charge of producing the furniture, but there were several other carpenters at work in the woodshop. Hiort af Ornäs’s furniture was exhibited and sold by the shop Nupponen who also distributed Olavi Hänninen’s designs, while Puunveisto’s furniture were also sold by Gösta Westerbergs Möbler in Stockholm, Sweden but, in spite of a good selection of chairs, tables and shelves, did not do too well. Since production costs were high, Hiort af Ornäs faced economic troubles. The company was later sold to Nupponen after which Hiort af Ornäs’s interest in the company waned.
Hiort af Ornäs spent his retirement in Spain, and designed several buildings for Fuengirola’s Los Pacos neighbourhood, which has a large Finnish population. His house that he drew and built in Tapiola, Espoo, Finland, ‘Villa Hiort’, still stands and houses some of the designer’s original drawings. It is a beautiful example of 1950s Modernism and the talent of Hiort af Ornäs that brought him recognition that lasts to this day. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
From early on, a dialogue with nature became the prime force in the ongoing evolution of Finnish design. This relationship with nature was much in evidence in early 20th century Finnish design, which actively expanded on the metaphors and motifs therein. This stunning chair revolves around high-quality materials, comfort, and the mastery of the era’s European cabinetmakers.
The design is focused on the aesthetics of modernism whilst employing the exquisite qualities of the upholstery. In many ways this chair transcends the word ‘modern’ thanks to its unique look. The outstanding look is the result of the brilliant pairing of materials. The solid wood structures’ smooth lines stand out even under the highly textural shearling while also accentuating the individuality of the upholstery. The soft fibres of the lightweight, curly Mongolian shearling drape beautifully over the lounge chairs, while the light greyish colour provides a lot of depth. As opposed to traditional shearling, Mongolian lamb/shearling (also known as shag) is a long, flouncy fur celebrated for its softness and luxurious volume. As it can be expected from Nordic pieces, functionality, and comfort are still kept at the core of the design. This is especially evident in the gently curved, enveloping backs and the tapered legs. The lacquered solid wood legs’ dark colour and smoothness further highlight the upholstery, creating a balanced look. Thanks to its visual qualities, mainly the shearling’s lush texture and colour, this pair of infinitely cosy lounge chairs can also be used as accent pieces to break the restrained aesthetic of any minimalistic space.
The use of exquisite materials, the combination of crafts with industrial production, and the obvious influence of the organic in Finnish design all created a stir of excitement during the 20th century. This excitement carries on today thanks to pieces such as these exceptional lounge chairs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in Mongolian shearling. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
30.31 in W x 34.25 in D x 30.7 in H; Seat height 18.11 in
77 cm W x 87 cm D x 78 cm H; Seat height 46 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
The seating designs of the architect and designer Carl Gustaf Hiort Af Ornäs have been gradually more and more recognized world-wide, which resulted in the recent exhibition titled “Forgotten Ornäs”. His designs, including these armchairs, are defined by the homely curviness and quality that mid-century design is beloved for.
These chairs named "Mikki” were designed by Carl Gustaf Hiort Af Ornäs and produced by his own company, Puunveisto Oy in the mid 1940s. In the mid-century era, materials were used for their own distinct qualities; often a piece of furniture would combine only two materials or colours – creating tension and harmony without fuss or superfluous ornament and these Mikki armchairs are perfect examples of this sentiment. The duality of the materials creates a flowing, 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 highlight each other's unique qualities. This pair falls into the category of the so-called biomorphic mid-century, that describes the furniture that relished in organic, curved, smooth surfaces. As such, the design is moulded into the shapes of natural occurrences, which was an accessible and lively mid-century contrast to the more austere machine aesthetic of the Bauhaus. This is most apparent in the armrests’ curvature and form with a beautifully sculpted shape dictating the rhythm of the whole design. Together with the curved shell seats’ welcoming shape and the fully upholstered bodies, these chairs have the characteristic charm of Hiort Af Ornäs’s design language. The tapered legs are more in service of functionality while showing off the natural beauty of the wood.
The craftsmanship of Hiort af Ornäs is very visible. The Finnish designer was very firm about two things regarding his chair designs: the sitting comfort and that the model must look good from every single angle. These Mikki armchairs fulfil these principles, showing off their stylish curves from all sides.
Condition:
In vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
25.59 in W x 31.1 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 24.01 in
65 cm W x 79 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Arm height 61 cm
About the designer:
Carl-Gustaf Vilhelm (nicknamed “Nalle”) Hiort of Ornäs was born on 27 February 1911 and lived most of his life in Tapiola/Espoo in Finland and in his later life moved to Spain. He is remembered as a Finnish interior architect and designer known to be uncompromising.
Before the Finnish wars (1939-1944), Hiort af Ornäs spent his time in Pori, working at Björneborgs Mekaniska Verkstad. He studied at the Helsinki University of Technology to become an architect but never graduated. He did, however, become known as an interior designer, and eventually even more known as a furniture designer.
In 1945, Hiort af Ornäs founded the furniture company Puunveisto Oy, for which he developed versatile techniques for shaping plywood. He started the furniture manufacturing shop on Lauttasaari in Helsinki (Veneentekijäntie 14) together with his brother. The wood shop, showroom, and office were all located in the same building in Helsinki. Rolf Mesterton was the man in charge of producing the furniture, but there were several other carpenters at work in the woodshop.
Hiort af Ornäs spent his retirement in Spain, and designed numerous buildings for Fuengirola’s Los Pacos neighbourhood, which has a large Finnish population. His house that he drew and built in Tapiola, Espoo, Finland, ‘Villa Hiort’, still stands and houses some of the designer’s original drawings. It is a beautiful example of 1950s Modernism and the talent of Hiort af Ornäs that brought him recognition that lasts to this day. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The “Laila” model by the Finnish designer Ilmari Lappalainen originates from 1948, with the earliest original drawings kept in the Lahti City Museum in their Lappalainen Collection.
This pair of “nr. 238” armchairs are from the Finnish designer’s most famous series called “Laila”. The design became sought after by collectors even in its production time, which is quite rare in the case of Nordic mid-century modern furniture. Lappalainen was a renowned designer, famous for his designs’ comfort. Some of his designs even received medical approval because they had such a good seating that it prevented back problems. These armchairs have a cosy modern style, modelled on the Swedish and Danish furniture of the time, including the round edges and generous seat cushion and back with tufted buttons. The bodies have the classic Nordic look, which explains the contemporary popularity of these armchairs both among the public and museums. The modern aesthetic is further elevated by the textured, premium upholstery that complements the shape and the wooden, tapered legs as well.
Wood is omnipresent in the Nordics, and Finnish woodworking is world-famous for its traditions. These chairs were created for Asko, the Finnish furniture manufacturing company founded in 1918 by Aukusti Asko Avonius, known for the production of high-quality furniture. By 1930 the company had developed into the largest furniture chain in Finland and the largest supplier of furniture in the Scandinavian countries. After the war, the damage it caused and the new homes of Karelian migrants concentrated production on essential furniture, which the Finnish Ministry of Public Affairs ordered to sell at an affordable price. Favourites of this time included Ilmari Lappalainen’s Laila series.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The pair has been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
30.9 in W x 33.07 in D x 30.11 in H; Seat height 15.35 in
78.5 cm W x 84 cm D x 76.5 cm H; Seat height 39 cm
Literature:
Riitta Miestamo "The Form and Substance of Finnish Furniture", Askon Säätiö, Esan Kirjapaino oy, Lahti 1981.p 65.
About the Designer:
Ilmari Lappalainen (1918 - 2006) was a great Finnish designer whose most active working years were from the end of the 1940s until the end of the 1970s.
Lappalainen first graduated as a teacher of woodworking in 1939, followed by a degree in interior design in 1947. By the end of the school of interior design, he was already working as an intern in Asko and after graduating he got a permanent design position at the company. Lappalainen worked as a teacher and as an interior designer for Asko's department stores, public spaces and hotels.
Lappalainen's most popular products / series are the Laila sofa set, the Seija rocking chair, the lazy castle Rex and the Pulkka armchair. Interestingly, the chairs from the Columna series were sold as health chairs for a long time, because they had such a good ergonomic design, that it prevented back problems. The chairs eventually received medical approval as well. ~H.
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This rare pair of “Pele” lounge chairs by Finnish designer Esko Pajamies is, without a doubt, his most stunning chair design. It is seldom we see a chair model and immediately recognise it, but Pajamies managed to design such a piece. His unconventional design was strongly characterised by durability and functionality as well as insightful technical solutions.
In Finland, the 1970s saw the use of new materials like plastic, synthetics, and fibreglass being combined with advances in manufacturing technologies, allowing designers to expand their range of colours and forms in mass production. However, this lounge chair model still gives preference to natural materials, primarily to its solid oak structure. The wooden frame provides a firm base with rounded edges. Undeniably, the most eye-catching and distinctive element of this design is the way in which the seat and the back legs of the armchairs are formed by one elongated piece of wood. The ergonomic design with the bent backrest, wide armrests, and upholstered cushions make this pair of lounge chairs exceptionally comfortable. It therefore comes as no surprise, that this model first gained popularity as a TV chair for homes. Later it became a popular choice for fireplace rooms as well as public spaces, similarly to several other designs of Pajamies.
This model was manufactured by the Finnish furniture company, Lahden Lepokalusto Oy in the 1970s. The Lahti-based company has been furnishing public spaces for almost 70 years, and gained worldwide recognition through the iconic furniture designs of Professor Yrjö Kukkapuro and later, Esko Pajamies.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The cushions have recently been reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
92 cm W x 94 cm D x 88 cm H