Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)

Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)

Date:

1951

Dimensions:

H x W x D – 50 cm x 106.5 cm x 64 cm

Designer:

Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959)

Manufacturer:

Wisconsin, USA

Material & Technique:

Pine plywood, solid oak (runners), hinges, iron chains, cushion pads, green fabric.

Delivery:

Free

Price: 3.200,00 €
(Tax included)

Description

Designed by the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright, this remarkable bench is a striking embodiment of the architect’s visionary approach to design. Originally conceived in 1951 for the Unitarian Meeting House, it was tailored to accompany the church's concrete pews—hence its characteristically low seat height.

Crafted from pine plywood with solid oak runners, the bench features iron chains and hinges that speak to Wright’s signature balance of form and function. A green fabric cushion adds a layer of comfort, transforming this architectural relic into a practical seating solution.

This piece captures the spirit of Mid-Century Modernism, a movement defined by clean lines, organic forms, and innovative materials. Born during the economic and cultural optimism of the 1950s, such designs were created to meet the needs of a modern lifestyle—simple, purposeful, and enduring. Wright’s bench exemplifies these ideals, offering a timeless silhouette that remains just as compelling today.

Far more than just a piece of furniture, this bench is a living fragment of design history—imbued with the legacy of one of the 20th century’s most influential minds.

Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)

Gallery

Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)
Frank Lloyd Wright Folding Bench (1951)

Historical Context

Mid-Century Design: The mid-20th century is characterized by the style of Mid-Century Design. This style movement began in the USA. In the 1950s, the societal and economic boom led to a high demand for modern interior design. This style phase was particularly characterized by simplicity, which produced timeless and elegant design classics. The focus was on furniture with clear shapes and lines, without frills or ornamentation. Organic shapes, various new materials, and a diverse color palette were experimented with. This resulted in designs like the "Tulip Chair" by Eero Saarinen, the fiberglass shell chairs by Charles and Ray Eames, or the Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen. Mid-Century Design spread throughout Europe and found its specific expression in many countries. Particularly well-known is Scandinavian Design with its renowned representatives such as Hans J. Wegner, Alvar Aalto, or Grete Jalk.