The Wassily Chair – Marcel Breuer’s tubular steel revolution

The Wassily Chair , also known as the B3 model , was designed in 1925 by Marcel Breuer , then a young furniture designer at the Bauhaus in Dessau. The chair was revolutionary: For the first time, bent tubular steel, previously known only from bicycle production, was used in a piece of furniture.

Breuer was indeed inspired by a bicycle—particularly its light, sturdy frame. The result was a chair that was at once functional, minimalist, and radically new .

Although the chair was n't designed for Wassily Kandinsky , Breuer was so enthusiastic about Kandinsky's design that a copy was later dedicated to him. It wasn't until the 1960s—with the re-production by Gavina —that the name "Wassily Chair" came into use.

• Frame : chrome-plated steel tube, bent – without welds
• Seats : leather or canvas, stretched on the structure
• Design : open, light, permeable – almost like a spatial sculpture

The chair appears as if it were floating in space. This very lightness was a radical counterpoint to the massive furniture construction of the early 20th century.

• Ideal as a single piece in spacious rooms
• Works particularly well in loft-style or modern old buildings
• Combine it with concrete, brick or wood – materials that create contrast
• Tip: In black it looks minimalist, in cognac leather it becomes homely

1. Who was Marcel Breuer?

A Hungarian-American architect and designer who became a pioneer of modern furniture design at the Bauhaus, particularly with tubular steel furniture.

2. Why is the Wassily Chair so important?

Because he was the first to use tubular steel in furniture design – a milestone in modern design.

3. How do you recognize an original?

Originals are now manufactured by Knoll International and bear a production stamp. Details such as screws, finish, and proportions also help with identification.

4. Is the chair comfortable?

Yes – despite its minimalist appearance, the Wassily Chair is surprisingly comfortable. The taut seat adapts easily to the body.

5. What colors is it available in?

Classic in black, white, or brown—often with leather. There are also versions in canvas or colorful versions for a new interpretation.