If you’re a fan of mid century modern design, you’ll want to know about the top vintage furniture brands that are still highly coveted today. From iconic pieces by Charles and Ray Eames to sleek designs by Knoll, this guide will introduce you to the most sought-after brands in the world of vintage mid century furniture.
Herman Miller
Herman Miller is one of the most well-known and respected brands in the world of mid century modern furniture. Founded in 1923, the company has a long history of producing innovative and stylish designs that have become iconic pieces of furniture. Some of their most famous designs include the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, the Noguchi Table, and the Aeron Chair. Today, Herman Miller continues to produce high-quality furniture that is both functional and beautiful.
Eames
Charles and Ray Eames are perhaps the most well-known designers of mid century modern furniture. Their designs, which include the iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, are still highly sought after today. The couple’s innovative use of materials, such as molded plywood and fiberglass, revolutionized furniture design and helped to define the mid century modern aesthetic. The Eames’ designs are timeless and continue to inspire furniture designers today.
Knoll
Knoll is another iconic mid century modern furniture brand that has stood the test of time. Founded in 1938 by Hans Knoll, the company quickly became known for its innovative designs and collaborations with some of the most influential designers of the time, including Eero Saarinen and Harry Bertoia. Knoll’s furniture is characterized by clean lines, simple shapes, and a focus on functionality. Today, the brand continues to produce classic pieces that are highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts alike.
Saarinen
Eero Saarinen was a Finnish-American architect and designer who is best known for his contributions to mid century modern design. One of his most iconic designs is the Tulip Chair, which he created for Knoll in 1956. The chair features a single stem base and a molded fiberglass seat, and it quickly became a symbol of the modernist movement. Saarinen’s designs were characterized by their simplicity, elegance, and functionality, and he was a key figure in shaping the aesthetic of mid century modern design.
Bertoia
Harry Bertoia was an Italian-born American artist and designer who is best known for his wire furniture designs. He began experimenting with wire as a sculptural medium in the 1940s, and his designs quickly caught the attention of furniture manufacturers. In 1952, he began working with Knoll, where he created his iconic Diamond Chair. The chair features a lattice of welded steel wire that creates a delicate, airy appearance. Bertoia’s wire furniture designs were groundbreaking at the time, and they continue to be highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts today.