1 Chair, 12 Rooms: The Curvaceous Panton Chair
The iconic midcentury modern design finds a place in a dozen homes around the world
This sculptural seat — originally named the Stacking chair, or S chair — is now known by the name of its Danish designer, Verner Panton. The Panton chair was the first chair to be manufactured completely out of plastic in a single piece. Since its introduction in 1967, four versions of the cantilevered chair have been produced from four kinds of plastic. It was originally made of fiberglass-reinforced polyester resin painted in a high-gloss lacquer. Today the Panton chair is made from colored polypropylene and sports a matte finish.
The Panton chair has been widely copied, and some copies are so good that they can be mistaken for the real thing. Only two companies in the world, Herman Miller and Vitra, are licensed to manufacture the Panton chair, and their licenses are for different territories.
The Panton chair has been widely copied, and some copies are so good that they can be mistaken for the real thing. Only two companies in the world, Herman Miller and Vitra, are licensed to manufacture the Panton chair, and their licenses are for different territories.
1. A cheery addition in Paris. Nothing says classic like a red Panton chair punching up a white space. The alternating colors for the chairs and lamps make for a playful touch.
3. Lofty living in Boston. The Panton chair is a great occasional chair that can help create balance, as in this living room. The white makes it a versatile piece — it would look good anywhere in the home.
4. Standing out in the United States. This dining room in a show house illustrates how seemingly contrasting patterns can work together even in a small space. But clearly the highlight of this eclectic space is the chartreuse Panton chairs.
5. Understated elegance in London. The way the ice-gray Panton chairs blend in with the organic textures in this eat-in kitchen shows how a neutral palette can help create an airy ambience.
6. Primary colors in Melbourne. This dining area in the tin-shed-turned-house of award-winning Australian architect John Henry brings to mind Mondrian-style color blocking.
7. Sophisticated style in Minneapolis. There’s nothing like a shapely chair to complete a glamorous boudoir. The white Panton chair ties in with the curves of the wall light and the silver accents, enhancing the room’s charm.
8. Kid size in Sydney. In 2005, Vitra came up with a smaller version of the original Panton chair for kids. These light blue Panton Junior chairs stylishly complement the other furnishings in this contemporary bedroom shared by two girls.
9. The more the merrier in Los Angeles. There’s enough room for kids and adults to gather round and get busy in this craft area. Different-colored Panton chairs and a table with adjustable legs make it a fun and functional space.
10. Amid the greenery in Singapore. Whether placed indoors or out, the Panton chair makes a striking statement. In this bungalow’s lanai, the red chairs add a vibrant touch to the refreshing landscape.
11. A different take in Florida. This chair is an interesting homage to the Panton, replicating its shape with woven rattan. It goes with the cozy country style of this bedroom.
12. Stylishly covered in San Francisco. These leather-clad chairs add to the air of sophistication in this streamlined room.
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18 Great Midcentury Modern Chairs