How Much Does a Barcelona Chair Cost?

By Alice Nichols

The Barcelona Chair is an iconic piece of furniture that has been a staple in the design world for almost a century. Designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich in 1929, this luxurious chair has become a symbol of modernist design.

But with such a prestigious reputation, how much does it actually cost? Let’s take a closer look.

The History of the Barcelona Chair

Before we dive into the cost of the Barcelona Chair, let’s take a brief look at its history. The chair was originally designed for the German Pavilion at the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona, hence its name. The design was inspired by ancient Roman folding chairs and features sleek, clean lines and supple leather upholstery.

The Cost of an Authentic Barcelona Chair

As you might expect, an authentic Barcelona Chair doesn’t come cheap. The chair is produced by Knoll Studio, which holds the exclusive rights to manufacture it. A brand new chair can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $8,000 depending on the retailer and specific design.

It’s worth noting that there are many replica versions of the Barcelona Chair available on the market that are significantly cheaper than authentic ones. However, these replicas are often made with lower quality materials and may not have the same level of craftsmanship as genuine chairs.

Factors That Affect Price

There are several factors that can affect the price of a Barcelona Chair:

  • Material: The most common materials used for authentic chairs include cowhide leather and stainless steel.
  • Finish: Different finishes can affect the overall cost. For example, chairs with a chrome finish tend to be more expensive than those with a satin finish.
  • Upholstery: Some retailers offer customization options for upholstery materials and colors which can increase the price.

Where to Buy a Barcelona Chair

If you’re in the market for an authentic Barcelona Chair, there are several retailers that offer them. You can purchase a chair directly from Knoll Studio or from authorized dealers such as Design Within Reach or Hive Modern. It’s important to do your research and make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable seller to ensure you’re getting an authentic chair.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of a Barcelona Chair can vary depending on several factors such as material, finish, and upholstery. An authentic chair can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $8,000 while replica versions are significantly cheaper but may not have the same level of quality. If you’re looking to invest in a piece of iconic modernist design, the Barcelona Chair is definitely worth considering.