I have always had a fetish for chairs, well designed chairs that is. When I was at Ringling School of Art and Design we had to draw one hundred chairs, design a chair and create a three dimensional model of our design.  That assignment left me with a greater knowledge and appreciation for what was centuries ago considered a dignified  and majestic object and is now an object serving many purposes, bearing in mind the consideration of ergonomics and function.

We have come a long way over the centuries in terms of comfort and functionality. On a recent trip to Denmark I had the opportunity to visit the furniture department of Illums Bolighus, a wonderful shop specializing in Danish home furnishing.   I so appreciate the methodology of our mid-20th century designers who were rightfully influenced by the German Bauhaus School.  The emergence of their ideology is still prevalent today in the work of our contemporary furniture designers.

Today, designs initiated by Hans J. Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, Finnish designer Eero Saarinen just to name a few are being replicated at all price points.  Availability makes it advantageous for anyone to  incorporate the artistry of these great designers into their home.  More than just popularity, it is important to remember where these significant designs originated.

Assimilating a furniture plan that supports the combination of what is currently owned with a special piece of furniture from the mid century modern period can be done without difficulty. Whether it is a chair, light fixture or a decorative accessory that you are adding to the mix, consider it an artistic element, make it a focal point!  It may clearly become a piece for conversation and inspiration.  Enjoy the art of good design.

photo credit: Shelby Elsbree www.tutusandtea.wordpress.com