What Is a Madrid Chair?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re someone who’s interested in interior design and furniture, you might have heard of the Madrid Chair. This chair is a popular piece of furniture that is known for its unique design and style. In this article, we will take a closer look at what exactly is a Madrid Chair, its history, and why it’s so popular.

What is a Madrid Chair?

A Madrid Chair is a type of armchair that originated in Spain. It is also known as the Spanish Chair or the BKF Chair.

The chair was designed by two Argentinian architects named Jorge Ferrari-Hardoy, Antonio Bonet, and Juan Kurchan in 1938 when they were living in Buenos Aires. The chair was inspired by the traditional folding chairs used in Spain.

The Madrid Chair has a simple yet elegant design that makes it stand out from other armchairs. It features a leather sling seat and backrest that are suspended from a metal frame with leather straps. The frame itself is made of iron or stainless steel, giving the chair its sturdy structure.

History of the Madrid Chair

The Madrid Chair was first introduced to the world at an international furniture competition held in New York City in 1940. The chair caught the attention of many people because of its unique design and practicality. It soon became very popular among architects and designers around the world.

In 1951, Danish furniture designer Hans Wegner created his own version of the chair using teak wood and renaming it as “The Tripolina Chair”. However, this version did not gain as much popularity as the original Madrid Chair.

Over time, variations of the Madrid Chair have been produced by different companies around the world. Some have added their own twists to the original design by using different materials such as wood or plastic for the seat and backrest.

Why is it so popular?

The Madrid Chair’s popularity can be attributed to its timeless design and versatility. It is a chair that can fit into any decor style, be it modern or traditional. The chair’s simple yet stylish design makes it a popular choice for many homeowners and interior designers.

Another reason for its popularity is its comfort. The leather sling seat and backrest offer support while also allowing the body to breathe, making it perfect for long periods of sitting.

In addition, the Madrid Chair has become a symbol of modernism and mid-century furniture design. Its iconic design has made it a must-have piece of furniture for anyone interested in interior design history.

Conclusion

The Madrid Chair is an iconic piece of furniture that has withstood the test of time. Its simple yet elegant design has made it a popular choice among homeowners and interior designers alike. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of mid-century modernism to your home or office, the Madrid Chair is definitely worth considering.