Icons of Comfort: Exploring the Most Influential Chairs in Design History

When you think of iconic furniture, chances are a few legendary chairs come to mind. These pieces do more than just offer a place to sit—they tell a story, represent a design philosophy, and often mark important movements in history. From revolutionary materials to striking silhouettes, the most influential chairs in design history have left a lasting impact not just on interior aesthetics but also on how we think about comfort and functionality. In this article, we’re highlighting five of the most iconic designer chairs that have shaped the world of furniture design.

1. The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman (1956)

Designers: Charles and Ray Eames

Few chairs have the cultural cachet and enduring appeal of the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. Introduced in 1956 by the husband-and-wife duo Charles and Ray Eames, this chair was designed to combine the comfort of a well-worn baseball glove with the elegance of modern design.

Made from molded plywood and luxurious leather, the Eames Lounge Chair was groundbreaking for its time and remains a staple in high-end interiors around the world. It perfectly balances form and function, embodying the principles of mid-century modern design while offering exceptional comfort. Its influence continues to be seen in modern furniture design, making it a timeless piece for design enthusiasts.

2. The Barcelona Chair (1929)

Designer: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Designed for the German Pavilion at the 1929 International Exposition in Barcelona, the Barcelona Chair by Mies van der Rohe is a striking example of early modernist design. Inspired by ancient Roman curule stools, this chair merges classical elegance with industrial minimalism.

Crafted with a stainless-steel frame and button-tufted leather cushions, the Barcelona Chair exudes luxury without being ostentatious. It represents Mies van der Rohe’s famous mantra, "less is more," and is still widely regarded as a symbol of sophisticated modern living.

3. The Wassily Chair (1925)

Designer: Marcel Breuer

Named after the painter Wassily Kandinsky, the Wassily Chair was a true innovation in both materials and form. Marcel Breuer designed this chair while working at the Bauhaus, drawing inspiration from the lightweight tubular steel used in bicycle frames.

The result was a revolutionary chair that was minimal, strong, and stylish. The frame was made of bent tubular steel, and the seat and back were constructed from canvas, leather, or fabric. The Wassily Chair broke away from traditional upholstered seating and paved the way for the use of industrial materials in modern furniture design.

4. The Egg Chair (1958)

Designer: Arne Jacobsen

The Egg Chair was designed by Danish architect and designer Arne Jacobsen for the lobby of the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. With its bold, sculptural form and cozy, enveloping shape, the Egg Chair was ahead of its time in combining aesthetic appeal with ergonomic comfort.

Its curved design offers privacy and comfort, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial settings. The Egg Chair is a hallmark of Scandinavian modernism, showcasing Jacobsen’s mastery of both form and function.

5. The LC4 Chaise Lounge (1928)

Designers: Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, and Pierre Jeanneret

Also known as the "relaxing machine," the LC4 Chaise Lounge is a study in ergonomic design and functional beauty. Designed by the iconic trio of Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, and Pierre Jeanneret, this chaise adapts to the natural contours of the body, offering supreme relaxation.

Its sleek steel frame and leather upholstery make it an instantly recognizable piece. The LC4 reflects the modernist movement’s commitment to simplicity, comfort, and the honest use of materials. It remains a favorite among architects and design aficionados to this day.

These five chairs are not just furniture pieces—they are milestones in design history. Each one pushed the boundaries of form, materials, and function in its time, and continues to influence designers and homeowners alike. At Sakala Atelier, we celebrate timeless design and quality craftsmanship, taking inspiration from such iconic pieces to create furniture that blends heritage with contemporary elegance.

Have a favorite from the list, or know of another iconic chair you think deserves a mention? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear your thoughts!