If we had to pick a piece of furniture that could define a man at home, it would have to be his chair. When watching the game or a movie, eating, or even just relaxing and contemplating on life in general, we’re always sitting, leaving a permanent butt print as we claim our throne. We could just be contempt with the barcalounger that we’ve had since our college days or the flimsy IKEA chair that we use as our dining chair or office chair. However, to really up our game at home, we need to invest in a worthy chair.
It may be daunting to go out furniture shopping right away — that’s why we have girlfriends and wives — but here’s a list of chairs that every guy should be knowledgeable about, and even aspire to own some day. Here are some modern classic chairs that you need to know about.
Eames Molded Plywood Lounge Chair
This classic design from the design power couple Charles and Ray Eames started off as an experiment in their own apartment. What has made this piece a timeless classic is not only the gracefully low-slung design, but also the intricate balance between the organic elements of the molded plywood and modernist approach to design.
Barcelona Chair and Stool
Legend has it, when Ludwig Mies van der Rohe was working on his German Pavilion at the International Exhibition in Barcelona, he realized that it needed seating only a day away from its opening. He quickly created this piece for the occasion, only to have created an enduring classic design that will be cherished by generations. It’s masculine in darker colors, but its frame’s sense of lightness portrays a feminine side as well, making it a versatile piece that will fit into any style of interior.
Wishbone Chair
Made to juxtapose itself from the heavier forms that were popular at the time, Danish designer Hans Wegner's light and sculptural Wishbone Chair has held up quite nicely against the test of time. The colorful touches of lacquer thoroughly updates the classic design, but for those less audacious can stick to the natural wood selections as well.
Egg Chair
The Egg Chair was originally designed by Arne Jacobsen for the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. It’s an exercise of form following function, as the chair anticipates the curves of the body. With privacy in mind in a busy hotel lobby, the high back lets you swivel away from unwanted conversations if need be. The colorful fabric choices can add visual pop to the playful shape, making it an excellent addition to any interior.
Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are that you’ve seen this lounge chair before. Another classic design by the Eames, it is another investigation into molded plywood combined with inspiration from the English club chair. The iconic design quickly became an American classic, finding comfort in any style of interior. With more variations for the veneer and leather options available now than ever before, it’s that one piece that will become your most prized investment.
1006 Navy Chair
Originally designed by Emeco for the U.S. Navy, as you might have already guessed from its name, it was designed to satisfy the military’s need for a lightweight and corrosion resistant chair. Despite its rather utilitarian origins, the chair has endured well over the years, becoming a believed piece of furniture even for our homes. The durable chair has a life span of nearly 150 years, so you won’t have to worry about your heavy ass breaking it anytime soon.
Eames Aluminum Group Management Chair
This is another iconic design from Eames that seems to have penetrated to every single corner of our lives, from board rooms to home offices. Unlike the other two Eames products we’ve covered, this one was actually designed as outdoor seating. The aluminum frame and base makes the chair extremely strong, but light enough to easily move around. The beautiful curvilinear lines not only look great, but its shape is also extremely comfortable to sit in, making it the perfect choice suitable for any interior.