Iconic Mid Century Modern Dining Chairs that Are Eternally in Style

Meet the mid century modern dining chairs that are eternally in style.These classic icons are the little black dress of interior design. These minimalist, curvy masterpieces come from a design tradition originating in Nordic nations in the 40s, and are taking the design world by storm.So, why exactly have these decades-old chair designs endured?

“The materials are so high quality; there’s a lot of solid teak and rosewood,” states Wava Carpenter, director at Pamono, an online retailer of high-end furniture. “The shapes are so sculptural, like works of art. They are really made to last, which is a nice contrast to the throw-away culture most of us see today.”

Read on to discover these timeless mid century modern dining chairs that stood the test of time… You’ll be amazed!

1. Ghost Chair

The design of the Louis Ghost Chair, also known as Anime Dining Chair, originated in 2002 by Philippe Starck, an innovative French industrial and interior designer. Nevertheless, the history of the chair’s iconic shape dates way back to the 18th century, back to Louis XVI reign.

The iconic Louis XVI Chair is indeed a timeless traditional design that’s been popular since its inception in the 1700s. Personally, we just love how Starck re imagined the icon in a revolutionary way. He made it fun, plastic. A single mold piece of clear plastic, to be specific. Brilliant! No one but forward thinking Stark would dare to re imagine French royalty!

2. Bentwood Chair

Bentwood Chairs, also known as Eon Dining Chairs, are credited to German-Austrian cabinet maker Michael Thonet, who perfected the technique in 1859.The innovative bending technique used allowed for the industrial production of a chair for the first time ever. It’s no wonder it earned Thonet a gold medal at the Paris World's Fair!

These lightweight solid Elm wood beauties with minimal design are elegant and blend effortlessly into a range of ambiances and design styles.They're just as easily found in your mother's breakfast nook as they are in a cafe in Paris or at the hottest fine dining restaurant.

3. Wishbone Chair

When it comes to mid century modern dining chairs by Wegner, the Wishbone Chair is, hands down, the most recognizable one. More importantly, it’s the epitome of his philosophy stating “A chair is to have no backside. It should be beautiful from all angles.”

The Wishbone Chair, originated back in 1949, also known as Woodstring Dining Chair,majestically pairs a handwoven natural hemp seat with a comfortably-curved solid wood frame.Inspired by enchanting portraits of Danish merchants sitting in Ming Chairs, this modern design icon that’s been in ongoing production ever since its inception.

4. Windsor Chair

It didn't take long for the portable and light Windsor Chair, also known as Amble Dining Chair, to find itself in every home in the world, even if it was first seen in Windsor Castle in 18th century England. These classics with a rustic appeal are expertly built from solid Elm wood and a durable black finish.

The design became so widespread that it became a mainstay in America in the 1700s. This spindle back beauty has remained a staple in country cottage and rustic farmhouse styles, perhaps reflecting on its origins. It may also be mixed with other styles thanks to its elegant silhouette and simple lines.

5. Tulip Chair

Finnish-American architect and designer Eero Saarinen created the organic Tulip Dining Chair, the first one legged chair ever, back in 1955 as a dining chair, yet it also makes a good accent or office chair. Mid century mastermind Saarinen, who also designed the TWA Flight Center, is considered the Michelangelo of modernism.

Believe it or not, three generations after its introduction the Tulip Chair is still being produced and it can be found in contemporary homes all over the world, proving iconic design is eternal.

6. Panton Chair

Denmark’s most influential furniture designer and architect Verner Panton presented his S Shape Chair in 1960, and it quickly became a Danish icon.Expertly built from molded plastic and sculptural in style, it’s one of the most affordable Nordic design classics at $$262 for a reproduction.

In time, this sleek and curvy beauty has been widely exhibited in Denmark and abroad. It currently takes part of the permanent collections of some of the globe's most famous museums including, New York's Museum of Modern Art and London's Design Museum.

7. Executive Chair

Another curvy modernist beauty by Saarinen, the Executive Chair, also known as Cordelia Dining Chair, debuted in 1950. Sleek chrome legs beautifully merge with dual-tone tweed in trendy colors in this sophisticated chair. Thanks to sculptural form and modern finishing, it has been one of most popular designs for seven decades.

Especially designed for office use, Cordelia quickly found its way into dining rooms and eat-in kitchens. Doesn't the curvy back of the chair complement the curves in the Tulip Table? The perfect pairing!

8. Series 7 Chair

Danish architect and designer Arne Jacobson created the Series 7 Chair, also known as Ernie Dining Chair, back in 1955. There's no mistaking the voluptuous hourglass form of this masterpiece, with an iconic profile recognizedby every Danish design fan.

It’s no surprise it became the most sold chair in furniture history after celebrating its 60th anniversary. Beautifully crafted from a single sheet of solid plywood and molded veneer, this minimalist beauty is built on metal chrome legs, easily stackable for occasional use or storage.

We hope this info inspires you for an upcoming project. Which of these eternally stylish mid century modern dining chairs did you like best? Tell us in the comments section below! Visit Manhattan Home Design for a diverse catalog of mid century modern furniture pieces.