Vintage chairs and used chairs: checked design classics

Used chairs are the most honest way into good design: after thirty years, a chair shows whether its design was any good.

At 2nd home you will find more than 200 vintage chairs and used chairs from second hand: classics by Vitra, Fritz Hansen, Knoll and Thonet, Swiss workshop quality by Horgenglarus, plus one-offs from household clearances. Every chair is individually checked and described with photos of its true condition. For a targeted search, go straight to the dining chairs, the office chairs or the Thonet chairs.

What should you look for when buying used chairs?

Three things: does the chair stand firm without wobbling? Are screws, tenons and glue joints intact? And does the seat height fit your table, usually 42 to 46 centimetres? All dimensions are listed with every piece, and we name traces of use openly. You recognise an original by the maker's label under the seat, on Thonet by the factory stamp.

Vintage chair or used chair, what is the difference?

Vintage means designs of roughly twenty years or older with a language of their own, used simply means previously lived with. Here you find both, from a fibreglass classic of the 1960s to a Vitra chair a few years old from a closed office. Age and provenance are stated with every chair.

Why buy used instead of new?

Because a good chair holds its value. Used, you pay far less than list price, get patina instead of plastic shine and keep a piece in circulation that was built to last decades anyway. Six matching dining chairs from second hand are often harder to find today than a single armchair, so sets deserve a quick look.

  • Chairs are much more than simple seating furniture – they shape the character of a room and offer comfort. Whether asdining chairfor social gatherings, more comfortablerocking chairwith springy seating feeling, stylishbar stoolfor the kitchen or relaxingrocking chairFor cozy hours – vintage chairs combine functionality with unique design. Particularly popular areMid-century chairswith organic forms,Bauhaus modelswith clear lines or iconicSpace-Age designs. At2nd-home.ioHere you will find a hand-picked selection of tested vintage chairs – sustainable, stylish and immediately available.

    Discover ourDining room chairs,Rocking chairs,Bar stools & bar chairsorrocking chairs.

  • Details about shipping and collection can be found in ourShipping informationOur verified sellers offer secure and fast shipping. Questions about your order or care? We are available byChat,Contact form,recallorWhatsAppavailable – all details atHelp & Contact.

1 of 2

Frequently asked questions and answers

What types of vintage chairs are there?

Dining room chairs: Classic or upholstered for longer sitting.

Rocking chairs: Dynamic seating comfort with light suspension.

Bar stools & bar chairs: Perfect for kitchen islands or home bars.

rocking chairs: Relaxing seating for living areas or reading corners.

How do I find the right chair for my room?

  • For the dining room: Chairs with armrests provide more comfort, while delicate models visually enlarge small rooms.
  • For the kitchen or bar: Pay attention to the seat height – bar stools are available in different heights for counters and high tables.
  • For the living room: Rocking chairs or upholstered chairs create a cozy atmosphere.

What materials are typical for vintage chairs?

Wood: Solid or with veneer, often in mid-century models.

Metal & steel pipe: Typical for Bauhaus designs or industrial designs.

Upholstery fabrics & leather: Comfortable seating, often found in lounge or club chairs.

How do I properly care for vintage chairs?

  • wooden chairs: Clean with a soft cloth, occasionally apply wood oil.
  • leather chairs: Treat with special leather care product.
  • Upholstered chairs: Lightly vacuum or clean with a damp cloth.

Why is it worth buying used vintage chairs?

Vintage chairs often offer better craftsmanship than modern mass-produced furniture, have character and are a sustainable alternative to new productions.

  • curation, selection and active search

    Every product you find on 2nd home comes from our curation and quality process . This includes our vintage Chairs .

    Our team is constantly looking for trends and new items to offer you high-quality vintage and second-hand goods and plenty of inspiration.

    And if you are looking for something specific, you can contact us at any time.

  • Delivery

    At 2nd home you don't have to wait long for delivery, our furniture , carpets , lights and decorative objects are available for immediate delivery. Another advantage when you buy vintage and second hand.

    For more information about shipping and delivery , see Returns & Refunds .

  • service

    At 2nd home we place great importance on quality and customer satisfaction. Although we offer vintage and second-hand furniture, we carefully inspect each piece.

    If you have any questions, our customer service will help you You can find further information about our buyer protection, guarantee and right of return in our cancellation policy .

  • sustainability

    By selling second-hand furniture, we promote reuse and reduce the consumption of resources. At the same time, we reduce CO2 emissions.

    You can find out more on our sustainability page.

1 of 4