There are certain designs that have become symbols of the era and movement in which they were created, while simultaneously proving to transcend trend and time. This month I am focusing on three of these iconic chair designs. A testament to their good design, these timeless chairs have remained in production for decades and continue to blend seamlessly in a variety of design environments.

Wishbone Chair

The Wishbone Chair was designed by Hans J. Wegner for Carl Hansen & Son and has remained a popular dining chair since its introduction in 1949. Featuring a simple hardwood silhouette with signature “Y” back and a seat of hand-woven paper cord, the Wishbone Chair is both minimal and comfortable and has become a signature of Danish modernism.

In this dining space by Olivia Massimi, the wood tones of the chairs complement the neutral palette in the room while the modern, simple silhouette of the chairs artfully juxtaposes the ornate mirror and intricate mantel.  

Meanwhile in this modern kitchen designed by Krista Watterworth Design Studio, the bright orange frame of the chairs adds a pop of color and vibrancy to an otherwise neutral space.

Womb Chair

In 1948, Florence Knoll asked Eero Saarinen to design a chair “that was like a basket full of pillows – something she could really curl up in.” The resulting Womb Chair is just that – an enveloping form of foam molded over a fiberglass shell with a relaxed posture. Simple and sleek, the Womb Chair is an icon of mid-century organic modernism.

In this bedroom reading nook by Ursino Interiors, there is something so calming and serene about the white cloud-like Womb Chair in this monochromatic space.  

Here in this cozy corner featured on Dwell, the deep blue chair, warm wood tones, and simple, modern accent furnishings create an overall mid-century vibe.  

Platner Chair

The Platner Chair was designed by architect Warren Platner in the 1960s. A classic representation of mid-century modern design, the Platner Chair features a sculptural base of nickel-plated curved steel rods designed to resemble a “shiny sheaf of wheat.”

In this dining room by SIMO Design, the light upholstery and dark base of the Platner chairs is the perfect combination to blend with the simple, modern wood table and the overall neutral palette of the space.  

Meanwhile in this space by Melanie Turner Interiors, the combination of dark upholstery and gold chair frames brings the drama in this glamorous dining room.