Barcelona Chair: Bauhaus meets modernity

The Barcelona Chair was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich in 1929 for the German Pavilion at the World's Fair in Barcelona . It is often said that the chair was designed for the Spanish royal couple—but this isn't true. While Mies did say the chair had to be "worthy of a king," he was primarily referring to its aesthetic appeal.

In fact, only two examples were created for the pavilion, serving as fixed architectural elements —not as freely movable pieces of furniture. Mies wanted to create a form that would blend into the composition of glass, marble, and freestanding walls. He called the chair itself a "monumental object" that would represent the progressive spirit of the Weimar Republic .

It was only years later that the Barcelona Chair was mass-produced – today it is licensed exclusively by Knoll International .

The Barcelona Chair consists of a chrome-plated flat steel frame and a seat tensioned with leather straps. The upholstered cushions are made of high-quality leather and quilted in a precise grid. The form is strictly geometric yet elegant – typical of Bauhaus thinking and modern architecture.

The combination creates a piece of furniture that radiates calm, order and presence – even in minimalist rooms.

Minimalist : Combined with a USM Haller sideboard or simple glass side tables, the Barcelona Chair looks particularly modern.

With Bauhaus classics : In combination with a Thonet cantilever chair, a bridge is created between the most important design trends of the 20th century.

Statement Piece : Placed individually in front of art or in spacious hallways, the Barcelona Chair unfolds its iconic effect most strongly.

1. Who designed the Barcelona Chair?

The chair was designed in 1929 by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in collaboration with Lilly Reich for the German Pavilion at the World Exhibition in Barcelona.

2. Was the Barcelona Chair designed for the Spanish royal couple?

No. Although Mies van der Rohe said the chair should be "worthy of a king," it wasn't specifically intended for monarchs. The two chairs in the pavilion served as architectural staging.

3. What makes the Barcelona Chair so special?

Its timeless design, high-quality materials, and perfect symmetry make it a milestone in modern furniture history—now produced by Knoll.

4. Is the Barcelona Chair a typical Bauhaus piece of furniture?

It is stylistically close to the Bauhaus, but is not a direct Bauhaus product. Nevertheless, it follows the principles of functionality, clarity, and reduction.

5. How do you recognize an original Barcelona Chair?

A genuine Knoll model bears an engraved logo and serial number. Look for high-quality materials, flawless craftsmanship, and clear proportions.