The Rise of Fiberglass Furniture Design

Furniture Design

Apr 9

Joe Colombo 'Elda' Lounge Chair in Cognac Leather, 1963

The 1960s and 1970s witnessed a revolution in furniture design, marked by the soaring popularity of fiberglass as a versatile and groundbreaking material. As a result, designers and manufacturers embraced the innovative properties of fiberglass, propelling it to the forefront of furniture production during this era.

Marc Held fiberglass bed for Prisunic Editions, France, 1970s

One of the most notable characteristics of fiberglass is its extraordinary strength-to-weight ratio. This attribute allowed designers to create furniture pieces that were lightweight yet surprisingly sturdy, offering an optimal balance between functionality and aesthetics. Additionally, fiberglass possessed inherent flexibility, granting designers the freedom to explore exciting and unconventional shapes, pushing the boundaries of traditional furniture design.

Maurice Calka for Leleu-Deshays, "Boomerang" Desk, France, 1970

The advent of fiberglass furniture coincided with the mid-century modern movement, which valued simplicity, clean lines, and minimalism. This marriage between fiberglass and mid-century modern design principles resulted in iconic pieces that defined the era. One such example is the iconic Eames Fiberglass Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames. The chair's revolutionary molded fiberglass shell exemplified the material's potential in producing organic, curvaceous forms that were both visually appealing and ergonomically sound.

Archizoom Associati, Modular ‘Safari’ sofa, designed 1968, manufactured 1970s

Fiberglass furniture also embraced the spirit of experimentation and expressed the vibrant and bold aesthetic of the 1960s and 1970s. Funky, psychedelic colors and patterns were integrated into these designs, injecting a sense of playfulness and individuality into the furniture. This integration of vibrant hues and eye-catching patterns reflected the changing cultural landscape and the desire to break away from more conservative design norms.

Sergio Mazza ‘Toga’ chairs for Artemide, 1968

Moreover, fiberglass furniture boasted exceptional durability and resistance to fading, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. This was particularly relevant during the 1960s and 1970s when the concept of outdoor living gained popularity. The ability to defy the elements and retain its original beauty made fiberglass furniture a favorite choice for patio sets, pool loungers, and garden chairs.

A rare "Elledue" double bed and Essetre Shelving Unit’s designed by Ettore Sottsass for Poltronova 1970s

As the 1970s progressed, advancements in technology and manufacturing techniques expanded the range of possibilities with fiberglass. Wood and metal frames were combined with fiberglass shells, amplifying the material's versatility and creating an even greater array of design options. The marrying of different materials further accentuated the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, resulting in furniture pieces that stood the test of time.

The widespread usage of fiberglass in furniture design during the 1960s and 1970s left an indelible mark on the industry. Its innovative properties and ability to embody both form and function allowed designers to usher in a new era of expressive and daring creations. While fiberglass furniture experienced a decline in popularity in subsequent decades, its profound influence on design and its lasting legacy remain a testament to its pivotal role in shaping our furniture landscape.

Our Favorite Fiberglass Works

Joe Colombo, ‘Sella 1001’ lounge chair, c. 1963

Vittorio Introini for Saporiti Rare Sculptural Desk in Black Fiberglass

1970s Italian Sofa in Fiberglass and Brown Striped Upholstery

Fiberglass Living Room Set By William Andrus For Steelcase, 1970s

‘Amanta’ lounge chairs by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia, 1960s

Jet Desk / Igl-Jet by Ernest Igl aka Ernest Hoffmann for Wilhelm Werndl, 1970s

Verner Panton Fiberglass Lounge Chairs in Brazilian Cowhide and Leather, pair, 1969

Rare 'Lampione' Floor Lamp designed by Fabio Lenci for Guzzini Italy 1968

Vintage ‘Pod’ armchair by Mario Sabot, Italy 1960

Thor Larsen for Torlan Staffanstorp 'Ovalia' Egg Chair in Blue Fiberglass, 1968

Gradual Sofa by Cini Boeri for Gavina / Knoll, set of 3, 1970s

Marc Held ‘Culbuto’ lounge chair and ottoman, 1970s

Karate Fiberglass Shell Sofa by Michel Cadestin for Airborne, 1970s

Karate Fiberglass Shell Lounge Chair by Michel Cadestin for Airborne, 1970s

1960's Pair of Space Age Fibreglass Pod Chairs

La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames for Vitra. Rare First Generation Construction, 1998

Set of LAR Chairs by Charles and Ray Eames, 1960S

Sunball chair by Günter Ferdinand Ris and Herbert Selldorf for Rosenthal, 1969

Space Age Dining Room Set by Markus Farner & Walter Grunder, 1970s

Impressive Fiberglass ‘Girasole’ Chair by Luciano Frigerio, Italy, 1960s

Armchair MP-61 in Brazilian Rosewood by Percival Lafer, Móveis Lafer, 1973

Sofa Mp-61 in Rosewood by Brazilian Designer Percival Lafer, 1973

Eero Aarnio for Asko Chair Orange Fiberglass Pastil or 'Pastille', Finland, 1968

1970s Astarte Nerviano Italy Typology Bar Cart in Fiberglass

Pierre Laporte "Girolle" Chair for Thonet, 1960S

Ernest H. Igl for Wilhelm Werndl Cabinet in White Fiberglass

Ernest Igl for Wilhelm Werndl Rare Cabinet in Fiberglass

‘President’ Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Steen Ostergaard, Meteor for Cado, 1970s

Carlo Bartoli for Arflex Pair of 'Bicia' Lounge Chairs in Fiberglass

Pair of "Garden Egg" Epoxy Chairs by Peter Ghyczy

Wendell Castle ‘Molar’ fiberglass settee and lounge chair, 1970s

Molar Dining Table by Wendell Castle, 1970s Gel-Coated Fiberglass , Mid-Century

Marsala 3 Seater Sofa by Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset, 1970s

Set of Two Yellow Targa Chairs by Klaus Uredat for Horn Collection, Germany, 1970s

DISCLAIMER: THE MILLIE VINTAGE DOES NOT OWN ANY RIGHTS TO THESE PHOTOS. PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL IMAGES AND COPYRIGHT BELONGS TO THE ORIGINAL OWNERS. NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED.

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The Rise of Fiberglass Furniture Design