Who Manufactures Barcelona Chairs?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you a fan of the iconic Barcelona chair? Have you ever wondered who manufactures this timeless piece of furniture? Look no further, because in this article, we’re going to dive into the history of the Barcelona chair and its manufacturers.

The Birth of the Barcelona Chair

The Barcelona chair was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich for the German Pavilion at the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona. The chair was intended to be a throne for the king and queen of Spain, but it quickly became a hit among design enthusiasts around the world.

The Features of a Barcelona Chair

The Barcelona chair is known for its sleek and modern design. It features a stainless steel frame with leather cushions, giving it an elegant yet comfortable feel. The chair’s clean lines and minimalist aesthetic make it a favorite among interior designers.

The Manufacturers

So, who manufactures these iconic chairs? The answer is that there are several companies that produce them. However, there are two main manufacturers that are recognized as producing authentic Barcelona chairs: Knoll and Mies van der Rohe’s own company, simply called “Mies.”

Knoll: Knoll is an American furniture company that has been producing high-quality furniture since 1938. In 1953, Knoll acquired production rights to Mies’ furniture designs, including the Barcelona chair. Today, they continue to manufacture authentic Barcelona chairs using the original specifications.

Mies: Mies van der Rohe’s own company originally produced his furniture designs in Germany. After World War II, production moved to America where he continued to create his signature designs until his death in 1969. Today, his company still produces authentic versions of his furniture designs, including the Barcelona chair.

Counterfeits

Unfortunately, due to its popularity, the Barcelona chair has become a Target for counterfeiters. It’s important to be wary of cheap imitations that may not meet the same quality standards as authentic versions. When purchasing a Barcelona chair, make sure to buy from a reputable dealer and only purchase chairs that come with proper certification.

  • Beware of: Chairs with subpar leather or poorly constructed frames
  • Look for: The Knoll or Mies insignia on the frame, proper certification and documentation, high-quality leather and stitching

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Barcelona chair is an iconic piece of furniture that has stood the test of time. While there are several manufacturers that produce them, it’s important to only purchase authentic chairs from reputable dealers. With its sleek design and comfortable feel, the Barcelona chair is sure to be a favorite among design enthusiasts for years to come.