From functional to fantastical, these chairs take lounging, dining and gathering to the next level.
Copacabana Lounge Chair from Gubi
If the Golden Gate Bridge and Hermés had a furniture baby, it would likely be this museum-worthy (Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris), indoor-outdoor metal masterpiece created in 1955 by Mathieu Matégot. Shown here in International Orange frame and Karakorum upholstery. Made in Denmark. Starts from $1,999–$2,299 at Gubi.
Trame Outdoor Armchair by Federica Capitani for Kenneth Cobonpue
The playful loops of this eye-catching chair (shown here in Avocado Green) are shaped from woven nylon and polyethylene on a steel frame. Handcrafted in the Philippines. Inquire at Kenneth Cobonpue or in North America at 888.889.9005
Wishbone Chair by Hans Wegner for Carl Hansen & Søn
Modernism meets Ming-style in this collectible chair (shown here in Matte Red), designed in 1949, and in continuous production since its original release. Made mostly by hand in Denmark and featuring a solid wood frame and handwoven paper cord seat. Seat cushion sold separately. $690 at Design Within Reach.
ik Folding Chair by Olaio
Easy to stow and easy on the eye, this chair (initially manufactured in 1969) is now available in Freijó wood with rattan seat (as shown here). Handmade in Portugal. Inquire at Olaio.
Scacco Garden Easy Chair by Palomba Serafini Associati for Talenti
Rope woven in a check pattern over an aluminum frame makes this chair elegantly enticing. Made in Italy. Price upon request at Arkitektura.
Hot Mesh Lounge Chair by Blu Dot
This chair may have started out years ago as a “hot mess” of a design problem — how to make a stackable, outdoor chair with a sturdy frame from the least amount of material. These days, its distinctive, modern silhouette and solid construction make it, simply, a cool design. Manufactured in the USA from custom, perforated powder-coated steel with zinc primer (shown here in Humble Red). $395 at Bludot or 415-255-2345.
Gisele Dining Side Chair for RH
Its sinuous shape suggests languid movement, leisurely meals and an endless summer, while its construction — artisan handwoven, all-weather resin wicker wrapped around a powder-coated stainless steel frame — makes it built to last for many seasons. Shown here in Caramel. Starts at $645 at Restoration Hardware.
Ella by Jacopo Foggini for Edra
Handmade entirely in polycarbonate, this high-drama chair with armrests was inspired by the shape of a flower. The petals are rendered in transparent and soft hues of mixed green and blue, anthracite or gold (as shown here), and the stem presents as a black pedestal which allows rotation. Price upon request at Edra.
Lisa Boquiren is a Marin-based design and architecture writer who also consults on brand strategy for creative businesses. She has served on committees for the American Institute of Architects and has overseen rebranding initiatives at EHDD Architects and the San Francisco Design Center.
