Steelcase, the renowned American furniture manufacturer, has partnered with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation to introduce two stunning new furniture collections that pay tribute to the late, great American architect’s timeless designs. The Rockford and Galesburg collections draw deeply from Wright’s architectural philosophy, bringing to life pieces inspired by his later residential projects, including the Laurent House and the Usonian homes in Galesburg, Michigan. This collaboration not only revives Wright’s legendary designs but also adapts them for modern living, offering a seamless blend of form, function, and forward-thinking craftsmanship.
The Rockford collection is a testament to Wright’s ability to marry beauty with practicality. Featuring low-slung armchairs and a small table with nesting stools, the collection is rooted in Wright’s philosophy of accessible, compassionate design. The armchair design, originally created for the Laurent House, a project Wright undertook for a mobility-impaired veteran, exemplifies his commitment to ensuring that form does not come at the expense of function.
The chair’s solid oak frame is both elegant and sturdy, with short, solid arms and tapered legs that make it easy to rise from the seat. This design is not just a chair; it’s a statement on how furniture can enhance the quality of life while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The accompanying small table, made of industrial plywood with beveled edges and a triangular top, showcases Wright’s innovative use of materials—turning what could be considered a raw material into a design feature that enhances the overall look.
The Galesburg collection takes inspiration from the built-in banquet seating found in Wright’s Usonian homes, reinterpreting this classic design for modern interiors. The collection includes armchairs and a sofa, both of which feature upholstery that cantilevers over a wooden base with bullnose edges—a subtle nod to Wright’s architectural forms. The design team took Wright’s original chair concept, which had delicate “winglets” on the arms, and enhanced it by making the arms more substantial and adding welts to the fabric. These welts run horizontally around the sides of the chairs and sofa and vertically up the middle of the sofa, creating three distinct seating areas. The sofa’s versatile design also includes an ottoman that can be attached to either side, transforming it into a chaise lounge—perfect for contemporary living spaces.
Available in a variety of textiles supplied by Designtex, the Rockford and Galesburg collections offer customization options that allow these timeless designs to seamlessly integrate into today’s homes. Each piece is a work of art that captures the essence of Wright’s architectural genius while meeting the needs of contemporary living. Whether placed in a modern loft or a traditional home, these pieces bring a touch of Wright’s visionary style to any space.
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