Exceptional for both its functionality and broad appeal, the Butterfly chair has been coming out of the cocoon lately. This floor-skimming seat features a lightweight frame, endlessly customizable hammock seat, and universal comfort. Curious to learn more about this bold and foldable seat? Read on to learn more about its origins and ways to style it in the 21st century.
History Of The Butterfly Chair
The original Butterfly chair was designed by three Buenos Aires-based architects, Antonio Bonet, Juan Kurchan, and Jorge Ferrari-Hardoy. The architects manipulated the frame into hairpin angles until a shape reminiscent of a butterfly’s wings emerged.
Familiar, modern, low-commitment, portable, adaptable for indoor and outdoor use, the Butterfly chair celebrates comfort and accessibility, offering an innovative counter to history’s more stiff-backed seats. For many connoisseurs, the Butterfly chair is a prelude to embracing full-fledged Modernism.
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What To Do With A Vintage Butterfly Chair?
Since original Butterfly chair frames were originally made of impervious steel, it’s not uncommon to thrift a vintage frame today, even if the original seat cover has long since seen its last siesta. In cases where the original seating cover has gone missing, it’s recommended to have a custom cover commissioned. Since covers and frames have varied wildly over the last 75 years, finding a vintage match is near impossible.
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What Covers For A Butterfly Chair Can I Find?
While buttery leather covers are the Butterfly chair’s most authentic skin, hides are also a popular style that offer that same blend of luxury, durability, and Argentinean allure. Along with the production of more affordable Butterfly chair versions came the advent of canvas and fabric covers—smart options if the chair is intended for outdoor use, especially if the fabric is performance grade. By having the fabric suspended from its “wings,” the covers are more akin to a hammock, conforming to the body and moving with you as you relax into a state of repose.
How To Style A Butterfly Chair?
A Butterfly chair cover is usually made of beautiful genuine leather, and it’s easy to style: with pillows, blankets and perhaps a floor lamp next to it. To play with texture, go for a chunky knit blanket or even prefer a faux fur chair cover for ultimate coziness. The Butterfly chair manages to blend in and partner fluently with a variety of decorating styles. Often showcased in a sitting room as a pair, a well-made Butterfly chair can also stand on its own.
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