Do you seek a chair that effortlessly combines style, comfort, and adaptability? Look no further than the Butterfly chair. This design marvel has captivated hearts with its elegant and functional features, earning it a place of honor in the most esteemed design publications. Despite being associated with dorm room living by some, the Butterfly chair has emerged as a symbol of timeless sophistication. In this article, we delve into the origins, global migration, and remarkable evolution of this iconic seat.
The History: From Buenos Aires to MoMA
The renowned Butterfly chair owes its creation to the ingenuity of three architects from Buenos Aires - Antonio Bonet, Juan Kurchan, and Jorge Ferrari-Hardoy. Inspired by their time at Le Corbusier's Paris studio, these visionaries designed the chair, originally known as the B.K.F., as a modern and versatile seating solution. Its exceptional appeal caught the attention of Edgar Kaufmann Jr., a prominent industrial design curator at MoMA. Kaufmann not only included the Butterfly chair in his own home, "Fallingwater," but also acquired one for the museum's permanent collection. With this endorsement, the Butterfly chair soared to new heights.
Photo by Paul Raeside / OTTO
The Frame: A Delicate Balance of Form and Function
Jorge Ferrari-Hardoy's genius lies in the evolution of the Butterfly chair's frame. Departing from the traditional wood-and-metal Tripolina design, he crafted a welded frame using ultralight ¼-inch steel rods. Through meticulous manipulation, he shaped the frame into elegant hairpin angles, reminiscent of a butterfly's wings. This attention to detail is crucial, as it distinguishes authentic Butterfly chairs from imitations. Replicas often use inferior materials or introduce unnecessary hinges and joints, deviating from the original blueprint. While folding Butterfly chairs may offer flexibility, they lack the essence of the true design.
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The Cover: Embracing Versatility and Style
The original Butterfly chair boasted a handmade sling seat crafted by Cuatrini, a renowned Argentinean saddle maker. These exquisite leather covers exude luxury, durability, and a distinct Argentinean allure. However, as popularity grew and demand increased, canvas and fabric covers emerged as more affordable options. These covers, especially those made from performance-grade fabric, offer versatility for both indoor and outdoor use. Suspended from the chair's wings, they enhance the feeling of relaxation, gently cradling your body like a hammock. This revolutionary design element has made the Butterfly chair a favorite among teenagers seeking to defy convention.
The Results: A Chair that Transcends Boundaries
The Butterfly chair's charm lies not only in its attention-grabbing presence but also in its ability to seamlessly integrate into any space. Whether showcased as a pair in a sitting room or as a standalone piece in a cozy nook, this chair effortlessly complements various decorating styles. Its airy design creates a sense of lightness, introducing balance when paired with other upholstered furniture. Stylish and spontaneous, the Butterfly chair offers a sophisticated seating option without compromising comfort or style.
So, if you are ready to indulge in a chair that combines elegance, adaptability, and a touch of artistic flair, the Butterfly chair is a perfect choice. Let this timeless design elevate your decor and redefine your seating experience.
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Endnote: Although Knoll only produced the chair from 1947 to 1951 and attempted to protect its patent, countless unauthorized reproductions circulated, making an original B.F.K., Artek, or Knoll Butterfly chair a rare and highly coveted find.
Featured image courtesy of Living4Media
