I've always been a big fan of Terence Conran, but he's always been hard to find in the USA. His design sensibility is amazing and his ability to channel the multitude of European influences and mix things up in a contemporary way is unparalleled. These Hermann Czech chairs are a great example of the sort of thing Conran finds that you never see here. I just spotted them in his new catalog along with this description:
"The Czech bent beechwood armchair (1994) by Hermann Czech is manufactured by the original licensed Thonet designs manufacturer. Michael Thonet established his company in 1819, initially to produce his own designs using the then new bentwood process, which he developed."
In searching our sites, I've found people recommend these side chairs often as good companions for modern dining tables that want a little softening. I would agree.
Though a tad expensive, these are really unique, practical, stylish chairs to know about (and with a little white paint, you could create a fun knockoff with one of Ikea's Olle Chair).
I also found these lovely bent wood chairs in a press pic from the shop, but can't find it at Conran and don't know the designer. It's a mystery that I hope you'll help me solve. Know the designer or a source? Please comment below.
THISJUSTIN: I got an email from Marisa at the Conran shop who says these chairs are vintage and no longer in stock with them. Still, anyone know the designer??
© 2009 Apartment Therapy
these chairs are fantastic. I hope someone can source them.
view carrefour_ny's profile
Wait, they're calling something designed in 1994 "VINTAGE"??!
view Anna at D16's profile
Starck just did a whole bunch of these last year for the Katsuyas in LA. Maybe knocked off?
http://www.lendrumfineart.com/images/portfolio/katsuya.jpg
view minihaus's profile
The chairs are also Czech chairs--just no arms.
http://www.bonluxat.com/a/hermann-czech-czech-chair.html
view Palmetto's profile