Brno Tubular Armchair With Armpads

Description

The Tugendhat House, often considered Mies van der Rohe’s defining residential work, is the summation of his ideas incorporated at every level of the design. Architectural historian Peter Blake explains in his book Master Builders: “As in every one of his designs, from skyscrapers to dining chairs, Mies reduces each object to its essential elements, and then refined each detail to a point of almost breathtaking beauty and eloquence. Nothing in this house did not reflect this distillation process to the point of utter perfection — not a window mullion, not a heating pipe, not a lighting fixture, not an ashtray.”

While there were 24 Tubular Brno Chairs in the Tugendhat House, there was only one Flat Bar Brno chair in the master bedroom, and, unlike the tubular version, the design was not subsequently put into production. In 1958, Phillip Johnson requested that Knoll produce the flat bar Brno Chair for use in his design of the Four Seasons restaurant. After making a few slight adjustments, including added cushioning — all with the approval of Mies — Knoll reintroduced the chair in 1958 and continues to produce each chair to Mies’ exacting standards, thanks to a collaboration with the Mies van der Rohe Archives at The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

ABOUT KNOLL – A Legacy of Modern Design

Knoll embodies a belief in the power of modern design—a philosophy that has guided the brand for over 80 years. Rooted in the Bauhaus design principle that modern furniture should complement architectural space rather than compete, Knoll has consistently upheld this ideal, creating environments where form and function coexist harmoniously.

Founded by Hans and Florence Knoll, the company draws inspiration from the innovative spirit of the Bauhaus School and the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Their vision of a new kind of furniture and workplace design, where craftsmanship and technology blend seamlessly, continues to shape Knoll’s values and informs every piece produced today.

For more than eight decades, Knoll has collaborated with pioneering modernists and bold contemporary designers, pushing the boundaries of design. Partnerships, from Florence Knoll’s timeless works to the innovative creations of Antenna Design, Don Chadwick, and David Adjaye, have defined the brand’s legacy and will continue to shape its future.

Knoll is more than just furniture; it is about creating connections—between people and their work, their lives, and their world. Recognised globally since 1938, Knoll’s workplace and residential furnishings are designed to inspire, adapt, and endure. The company’s commitment to modern design, deep understanding of the evolving workplace, and dedication to sustainability have culminated in a unique portfolio of products that respond to the changing needs of its customers.

This is Knoll’s story—a story of design that not only stands the test of time but also continues to lead the way forward.