Mid-century modern furniture has remained popular for decades due to its clean lines, sleek forms, and timeless appeal. Lane Furniture, a well-known American furniture manufacturer, was at the forefront of this movement during the mid-20th century.
With pieces that were innovative, stylish, and comfortable, Lane Furniture captured the essence of mid-century design. But as the years have gone by and other styles have come and gone, you may be wondering if Lane Furniture’s mid-century designs are still being made today. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the history of Lane Furniture, their mid-century designs, and whether or not they are still in production today.
History of Lane Furniture
Lane Furniture was founded in 1912 in Altavista, Virginia. Originally a manufacturer of cedar chests, the company expanded into other types of furniture in the 1940s. Their mid-century designs were created in the 1950s and 1960s, a time when American furniture design was undergoing a major shift towards modernism. Lane’s mid-century pieces were characterized by their clean lines, organic shapes, and innovative use of materials. These designs were inspired by the work of other famous mid-century designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson, and Eero Saarinen.
Lane Furniture Mid-Century Designs
Lane Furniture’s mid-century designs were innovative and visually striking. They utilized new materials such as fiberglass, bentwood, and molded plywood to create chairs and tables that were unlike anything that had come before. These pieces were also designed with functionality in mind, often incorporating features such as swiveling bases and adjustable height. Some of the most iconic mid-century designs from Lane Furniture include:
1. Acclaim Series
The Acclaim Series, introduced in 1961, featured a range of furniture pieces including coffee tables, end tables, and TV cabinets. The series used walnut veneer and solid oak to create a warm, organic look.
2. Rhythm Series
The Rhythm Series, introduced in 1956, was designed by famous mid-century designer Adrian Pearsall. The series featured chairs and sofas with clean lines and a distinctive boomerang-shaped base.
3. Perception Series
The Perception Series, introduced in 1961, featured furniture pieces with a futuristic look. The series utilized fiberglass and molded plywood to create chairs and tables that were eye-catching and modern.
Is Lane Furniture Mid-Century Still Being Made?
While Lane Furniture no longer produces many of its mid-century designs, some pieces are still in production today. The Acclaim Series, for example, has been reissued in recent years by a company called American of Martinsville. This reissue features many of the same design elements as the original series, including walnut veneer and solid oak construction. However, the reissue is not an exact replica of the original Acclaim Series, as some details have been changed to update the design and make it more suitable for modern living.
The Perception Series, on the other hand, is not currently being produced. However, some vintage pieces from this series can still be found on the market. These pieces are highly sought after by mid-century enthusiasts and collectors, and can fetch high prices at auction.
Conclusion
Lane Furniture’s mid-century designs remain some of the most iconic and sought-after pieces of mid-century modern furniture. While many of these designs are no longer in production, some pieces, such as the Acclaim Series, have been reissued by other manufacturers. If you’re a fan of mid-century design and are looking to incorporate some Lane Furniture into your home, be prepared to do some hunting. Vintage pieces from Lane’s mid-century period can still be found, but may be difficult to come by. Regardless of whether you’re looking for a vintage piece or a modern reissue, Lane Furniture’s mid-century designs are sure to add a touch of timeless style to any home.