Where Do You Sit?: 8 Statement Chairs to Buy in 2025
- Zeynep Çağla Baki
- Jan 18
- 12 min read
Updated: Jan 19
Statement Chairs is a curation iconic chairs through variety of design styles, made by Hevi Studio. What makes us consider these chairs as a 'statement' is that they became the symbol of their era and resonate across generations. We can observe innovative techniques and cultural influence through materials, forms and production techniques.
Here are 20 Statement Chairs to buy in 2025 listed below to offer a statement in your interior spaces.
Scandinavian Elegance: Wishbone Chair by Hans J. Wegner
Wishbone Chair by Hans J. Wegner
Wishbone Chair, also known as CH24, was designed in 1949 by Danish designer Hans J. Wegner. It was created in Denmark as a part of his series of iconic modernist furniture.
The chair was inspired by classic Ming Dynasty Chinese chairs and Scandinavian design principles. Wegner aimed to create a lightweight, elegant and functional chair with a distinctive Y-shaped backrest that provided comfort and support.
How it's Made?
Wishbone Chair is celebrated for its seamless combination of craftmanship and simplicity. Its unique Y-shaped backrest not only offers ergonomic support but also creates a visually striking silhouette. The handwoven paper cord seat is another innovative element, blending durability with organic aesthetics.
The frame is crafted from solid wood, typically oak, beech, ash and walnut, which is carefully steam-bent to form its iconic curves. The seat is handwoven from 120 meters of durable paper cord, a process that takes skilled artisans about an hour to complete. The assembly involves meticulous hand-finishing to ensure smooth joints and a refined appearance.
Wishbone chair is versatile and is commonly used in dining rooms, kitchens and study areas. Its timeless design fits seamlessly into Scandinavian, minimalist, modern and eclectic interiors, often paired with wooden or glass tables for a cohesive look.
Where to Buy?
Carl Hansen & Sons has been the sole manufacturer of the Wishbone Chair since its inception and continues to produce it today. Wishbone Chair is available in variety of finishes, including natural wood, stained wood and painted options. The paper cord seat is usually offered in natural or black. Limited editions occasionally feature unique finishes or upholstery.
The price for an authentic Wishbone Chair ranges from $600 to $1200, depending on the wood type and finish. It can be purchased from Carl Hansen & Son's official website, authorized retailers and design stores like Design Within Reach and 1stdibs.
Classy Cowboy: Shell Chair by Hans J. Wegner
The Shell Chair, also known as the CH07, was designed in 1963 by the renowned Danish furniture designer Hans J. Wegner. It was first introduced in Denmark and became an iconic example of Danish modern furniture, celebrated for its sculptural design and masterful craftsmanship.
Hans J. Wegner envisioned the Shell Chair as a functional piece that also served as a work of art. The design was driven by the desire to create a lightweight, visually striking chair with an organic, flowing form that prioritized comfort and elegance. The chair’s curved seat and backrest provide ergonomic support, while its minimalist structure adds sophistication to any space.
How it's Made?
The Shell Chair stands out for its pioneering use of molded plywood, which allows for its signature sweeping curves and seamless form. At the time of its design, the chair’s three-legged base was unconventional but offered excellent stability and a modern aesthetic. The combination of form, function, and craftsmanship exemplifies Wegner’s commitment to designing furniture that is as practical as it is beautiful.
The Shell Chair is crafted using high-quality materials, including a solid wood frame (typically oak, ash, or walnut) and a molded plywood seat and backrest. The production process begins with steam-bending and pressing the plywood into its distinct curved shape. This technique ensures both strength and flexibility in the chair’s structure. Upholstered versions feature seat cushions or fully upholstered surfaces, often in premium leather or fabric. The wood components are finished with stains or varnishes to enhance the natural grain, while the upholstery is meticulously tailored to fit the chair's contours.
Where to Buy?
The Shell Chair was originally produced by Carl Hansen & Søn, a Danish company known for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Carl Hansen & Søn continues to manufacture the Shell Chair today, adhering to Wegner’s original design specifications to preserve its authenticity and legacy.
The Shell Chair is available in a variety of finishes and upholstery options. The wood frame can be crafted in natural oak, ash, or walnut, with options for stained finishes to suit different interiors. Upholstery choices include a wide range of fabrics and leathers in neutral shades like beige, brown, black, and gray. High-end leather and wool options are also available, as well as custom colors for a more personalized touch.
The Shell Chair typically ranges in price from $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the wood finish, upholstery material, and retailer. It can be purchased directly from Carl Hansen & Søn’s website or authorized showrooms. High-end furniture retailers like Design Within Reach and 1stdibs also carry the chair. For those seeking lower-priced alternatives, reproductions are available through other furniture retailers, but they may not match the quality and craftsmanship of the original.
A Swiss Designer in India: Chandigarh Chair by Pierre Jeanneret
Chandigarh Chair by Pierre Jeanneret
Chandigarh Chair was designed in 1956 by Swiss architect Pierre Jeanneret as part of the furniture collection for the Capitol Complex in Chandigarh, India. The design was created as part of the larger architectural project led by Le Corbusier and Jeanneret.
Chandigarh Chair was designed to complement the modernist architecture of the Capitol Complex in Chandigarh, blending functionality with minimalism. The chair's design is rooted in the idea of creating furniture that is simple, utilitarian and durable, reflecting the modernist ideals of clean lines and geometry while also accomodating the local climate and cultural context.
How it's Made?
The groundbreaking aspect of the Chandigarh Chair lies in its minimalist approach to form, combined with its use of local craftmanship and materials. The chair's open structure, with its geometric and angular lines was revolutionary in its simplicity and directness. It introduced modernist design principles to Indian furniture, combining Western design ideas with Indian craftmanship.
The chair is made from solid teak wood, known for its strength and aesthetic qualities. The production process involves precise joinery, handcrafting techniques and traditional woodworking methods. Frame of the chair is made up of rectangular sections with vertical slats in the backrest and legs. Some versions include a woven cane or leather seat, highlighting the combination of wood and natural materials for durability and comfort.
The Chandigarh Chair is commonly found in modernist and minimalist space, fitting well in living rooms, lounges, offices and libraries. Its functional yet sculptural design makes it a fitting choice for spaces that emphasize simplicity and elegance. It is also seen in architectural settings that value the aesthetic of form following function.
Where to Buy?
Initially, Chandigarh Chair was produced locally in India by craftsmen working with the goverment, specifically for the Capitol Complex project. Today, several companies, including The Design Company and authorized retailers like CCI, manufacture and distribute the chair, offering modern versions and reproductions of the original design.
The price of Chandigarh Chair ranges from approximately $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the materials used and the manufacturer. It can be purchased through design galleries, specialized furnitures stores and online platforms like 1stdibs and The Design Company. Vintage versions and auction pieces may fetch higher prices.
Lines and Surfaces: Wassily Chair by Marcel Breuer
The Wassily Chair, also known as the Model B3 Chair, was designed in 1925 by Marcel Breuer, a Hungarian-born modernist architect and furniture designer. It was conceived at the Bauhaus school in Dessau, Germany, a hub of modernist design and architecture during the early 20th century.
Marcel Breuer designed the Wassily Chair as an experiment in minimalist, functional design. Inspired by the tubular steel frames of bicycles, Breuer sought to create a lightweight, visually striking chair using industrial materials. Although it was not explicitly designed for artist Wassily Kandinsky, the chair earned its name because Kandinsky admired the prototype so much that Breuer made one for his personal use.
How it's Made?
The Wassily Chair was groundbreaking due to its use of tubular steel, a material previously reserved for industrial applications. Breuer’s innovative use of steel tubing allowed for a lightweight yet durable frame, making the chair a significant departure from traditional wooden furniture. Its minimalist design, which relies on the tension of the leather or fabric straps for seating support, redefined the aesthetics of furniture design and became an icon of the modernist movement.
The frame of the Wassily Chair is made from seamless tubular steel, which is bent and welded to create its distinctive geometric shape. The frame is then polished to a high shine, often chrome-plated to enhance durability and aesthetics. The seat, backrest, and armrests are made from leather, canvas, or fabric straps, cut and stitched to precise dimensions to fit the frame securely. The straps are fastened to the steel structure with rivets or screws, ensuring a taut and comfortable sitting experience.
The Wassily Chair is a versatile piece that fits seamlessly into modern, minimalist, and industrial-style interiors. It is commonly used in living rooms, offices, and lounges as a statement piece. Its iconic design makes it popular in art galleries, contemporary hotels, and upscale commercial spaces. The chair’s timeless appeal also allows it to complement eclectic interiors, blending modern and traditional elements.
Where to Buy?
The Wassily Chair is available in a range of finishes and upholstery options. The tubular steel frame is typically chrome-plated, though matte black and other custom finishes are also offered. Upholstery options include leather in classic colors like black, brown, white, and beige, as well as canvas or fabric in neutral and bold hues. High-quality leather options, including aniline and saddle leather, are often chosen for their durability and luxurious feel.
The Wassily Chair ranges in price from $2,500 to $5,000 USD, depending on the materials and finishes selected. Authentic Knoll versions can be purchased directly from Knoll’s website, authorized retailers, or high-end furniture stores like Design Within Reach. Reproductions are available from other retailers at lower price points, though they may not match the craftsmanship and durability of the original. Vintage and second-hand versions of the chair can also be found on platforms like 1stdibs and Chairish.
Best Use of Plastic: Panton Chair by Verner Panton
Panton Chair was designed in 1960 by Danish designer Verner Panton. It was first produced in 1967 in collaboration with Vitra, making it the world's first single-piece plastic chair.
Verner Panton aimed to create a functional, stackable and sculptural chair that embraced the futuristic spirit of the 1960s. The design embodies fluidity, inspired by the human body and natural curves, while being highly practical for mass production.
How it's Made?
Panton Chair was the first chair to be made from a single piece of injection-molded plastic. Its cantilevered design without traditional legs and its use of new materials and production techniques were revolutionary for the time.
The original chair was made from fiberglass-reinforced polyester, later replaced with polyurethane foam and subsequently with polyproplene for environmental reasons. Modern Panton Chairs are injection-molded from polyproplene, a durable and lightweight thermoplastic. Manufacturing process involves heating the plastic, shaping it in molds and allowing it to cool and harden into the iconic S-curve form.
Panton Chair is frequently used in contemporary, minimalistic and modern interiors. It is popularly used in dining rooms, offices, galleries and even outdoor spaces, thanks to its versatile, lightweight nature and sculptural appeal. It also fits well in eclectic spaces as a statement piece.
Where to Buy?
Initially, the chairs was manufactured by the Swiss copany Vitra, and continues to be the authorized producer of the Panton Chair. It is available in range of vibrant colors, including red, white, black, orange, green and blue as well as neutral tones like beige and grey. It can also be found in matte, glossy, or even limited-edition finishes such as Chrome.
The price of Panton Chair ranges between $300 to $400 for standart models, while limited editions or vintage originals can cost significantly more. You can purchase through Vitra's official website, high-end design retailers and online platorms like 1stdibs and Design Within Reach.
Fusion of Innovation and Craftmanship :Cesca Chair by Marcel Breuer
Cesca Chair by Marcel Breuer
Cesca Chair was designed in 1928 by Hungarian-born designer and architect Marcel Breuer during his time at the Bauhaus in Germany.
Marcel Breuer envisioned a modern chair that combined traditional craftmanship with industrial materials. The Cesca Chair integrates a tubular steel frame with a woven cane seat and back, bridging the gap between artisan work and mass production.
How it's Made?
Cesca Chair was one of the first to use tubular steel as the primary structural element, making it a pioneer in cantilevered chair design. Its seamless integration of lightweight materials and modern aesthetics set a precedent for 20th century furniture design.
The frame is made from bent tubular steel, which is precision-cut, shaped, and welded to form the cantilever structure. The seat and backrest are made of handwoven cane, attached to a solid beechwood frame for durability. The chair's production involves a combination of handcrafting for the cane work and industrial techniques for the steel components.
Cesca Chair is widely used in dining rooms, offices and meeting spaces due to its ergonomic and minimalist design. It also appears in eclectic and modern interiors as an iconic piece that blends Bauhaus style with contemporary settings.
Where to Buy?
The original manufacturer was Thonet, and later it was produced by Gavina in Italy. Knoll acquired Gavina in the 1960s and is the current authorized producer of the Cesca Chair. Cesca Chair is available in natural or stained wood finished for the cane frame, with optons such as black, natural and walnut. The tubular steel frame typically comes in polished chrome or matte black. Some versions also feature upholstered seats in fabric or leather for added comfort and variety.
Prices for authentic Cesca Chair by Knoll range from $700 to $1200, depending on the finish and upholstery options. They can be purchased directly from Knoll's website, high-end furniture retailers and specialty stores such as Design Within Reach and 1stdibs.
Laying Back: The Paulistano Chair by Paulo Mendes da Rocha
Paulistano Chair designed by Paulo Mendes da Rocha
The Paulistano Chair was designed in 1957 by Brazilian architect and designer Paulo Mendes da Rocha. It was created for the headquarters of the São Paulo Athletic Club in São Paulo, Brazil, and is considered an iconic example of modern Brazilian design.
The design concept behind the Paulistano Chair was to create a lightweight, functional, and minimalist chair that could adapt to various environments. Mendes da Rocha aimed to blend industrial materials with a sleek, elegant form that would echo the clean lines and functional aesthetics of modernist architecture, while also being practical and comfortable for everyday use.
How it's Made?
The Paulistano Chair was groundbreaking due to its minimalist form and use of industrial materials. Its use of a single metal frame that supports a flexible, stretched leather seat was innovative at the time, emphasizing simplicity and functionality. The chair's construction was also lightweight and stackable, making it easy to move and store, an important feature for spaces with dynamic uses.
The Paulistano Chair is primarily made from a steel frame that is bent into a simple geometric form. The frame is covered with a stretched leather seat and backrest, giving the chair both flexibility and comfort. The process involves precision bending of the steel, followed by the stretching and fastening of the leather. The leather may be sewn or riveted to the frame, ensuring durability while maintaining a clean, streamlined aesthetic. Some versions may also include a fabric seat in place of leather, offering further customization.
The Paulistano Chair is often found in modern, minimalist, or contemporary interiors. It works well in living rooms, lounges, or office spaces, where its sleek, elegant design can complement other modern furnishings. Its lightweight nature also makes it ideal for outdoor or semi-outdoor settings, such as terraces or patios. The chair is frequently seen in public spaces, galleries, and waiting areas due to its adaptability and striking design.
Where to Buy?
The Paulistano Chair was initially produced by the Brazilian furniture manufacturer Forma, which worked closely with Mendes da Rocha. Today, it is manufactured and distributed by Objekto, a company that specializes in reproducing classic Brazilian modernist furniture. Objekto has maintained the chair's design integrity, producing high-quality versions for both commercial and residential markets.
The Paulistano Chair typically comes in a variety of finishes for the leather, including neutral tones such as brown, tan, or black. The steel frame can be finished in a chrome or powder-coated version, available in black, white, or metallic tones. Some modern reproductions offer additional fabric upholstery options for the seat, expanding color and texture choices, including muted shades or more vibrant options.
The Paulistano Chair generally falls within the price range of $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the materials used and the manufacturer. High-quality reproductions and limited editions may command higher prices. It can be purchased from specialty furniture retailers, design galleries, and online platforms such as 1stdibs, Objetto, and other authorized dealers of modern Brazilian furniture.
So?
The world of iconic chairs is a testament to the power of design, blending form, function, and innovation to create timeless masterpieces. From Marcel Breuer's revolutionary Wassily Chair with its industrial steel frame to Hans Wegner's organic and elegant Shell Chair, each piece tells a story of bold ideas and groundbreaking techniques.
These chairs transcend mere utility, becoming cultural symbols and works of art that define interiors worldwide. Whether it's the sculptural beauty of the Panton Chair, the modernist flair of the Cesca Chair, or the understated sophistication of the Chandigarh Chair, these designs continue to inspire and elevate spaces.
As enduring examples of craftsmanship and creativity, these iconic chairs are not just furniture but statements of design history, offering endless possibilities for enhancing any environment.
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