Martin Grierson London swivel chairs Arflex Italy 1962

An extraordinary piece of furniture! Designed by Martin Grierson and manufactured by Arflex in 1962, the ‘London’ swivel chair embodies a striking balance between modernist precision and contemporary elegance. This distinctive club chair boasts a sophisticated yet substantial presence, making it a standout piece in any interior.

The chair’s shell is crafted from two beautifully grained rosewood plywood shells, connected by a bold, oversized polyester joint. Resting on a sleek metal pedestal base, the design achieves a harmonious fusion of organic warmth and structural innovation. The tufted leather upholstery, newly restored in premium leather to match the original design, introduces a tactile contrast to the modern, architectural form of the shell and base. The metal components exhibit an elegant patina, reflecting the chair’s rich history.

Martin Grierson (b. 1932), an esteemed English designer, began his career assisting prominent architects and designers before establishing his own firm in 1975. His philosophy is deeply rooted in craftsmanship, as he states: “I set out to make proper pieces of furniture that exploit traditional forms of construction but are, nevertheless, expressions of today.”

This rare pair of ‘London’ swivel chairs encapsulates Grierson’s vision—timeless craftsmanship seamlessly blended with forward-thinking design.

Literature; New furniture Neue Möbel 7 by Gerd Hatje, page 58 – 59.