These coveted collectibles from 20th and early 21st-century icons, along with eye-catching pieces from contemporary creators, show that while women are outnumbered by men in the world of furniture design, they are not outclassed. These coveted collectibles outlive their iconic creators — pioneering women whose inventive designs have enduring appeal.
Eve Pendant by Zaha Hadid (1950–2016)
Reminiscent of the British-Iraqi architect-artist’s fluid and organic buildings, this light fixture combines traditional, hand-made glass techniques with parametric (algorithmic) design. Shown here in a base size composed of 15 glass pieces, Eve is a sculptural play on light and shadow which will transform a space from stylish in the daytime to intriguing in the evening. Inquire with Lasvit.
ClassicCon Adjustable Table E1027 by Eileen Gray (1878–1976)
The Irish architect conceived of this adjustable steel-framed and glass-topped side table in 1927 — part of a series of furniture prototypes for the E-1027 house which she designed, and owned. Among her most famous designs, this side table may have been designed by Gray, so that her sister, Thora could have breakfast in bed when she visited. Available for $1,675 through Design Within Reach.
Butaque Chair by Clara Porset (1895–1981)
Widely traveled, the Cuban-born furniture and interior designer was educated in the U.S., Cuba and Europe. She settled in Mexico, where she lived and worked for 45 years. Her reimagining (circa 1952) of the Spanish Colonial era “lazy chair” features a more curved, ergonomic shape in solid teak with a tan hide sling seat. Available for $4,639 from Luteca.
Table Monta by Charlotte Perriand (1903–1999)
Originally designed and used by the French architect and designer in her home, this finely crafted coffee table is formed by two oval legs and an oval top. Shown here in a new interpretation featuring stained-black, solid Ash and a marble top in Marmo Nero Marquiña. Starting at $15,745 from Cassina.
Florence Knoll Model 33 Sofa by Florence Knoll (1917-2019)
The American architect, designer and entrepreneur described her furniture as the “meat and potatoes” for Knoll — a small furniture company which she helped build into an influential business. Reissued in late 2023, nearly 70 years after its debut, Model 33 endures — a remarkable example of Knoll’s deftness at translating architecture into innovative and comfortable, human-scale design. Shown here in Prestini copper/white with black frame for $4,148 from Knoll.
