Thonet is not just a furniture brand—it is a living testament to how design can shape culture. Founded in 1819 by Michael Thonet, the company pioneered the art of bentwood, transforming simple beech into graceful curves that became icons of modern living.
Thonet’s story is one of daring innovation: in the 1830s, Michael Thonet perfected a method of bending solid wood with steam, creating lightweight yet durable forms that revolutionized furniture production. The legendary Chair No. 14, often called the “Vienna Coffee House Chair,” became a symbol of democratic design—affordable, elegant, and endlessly adaptable. By the early 20th century, Thonet expanded its vision with tubular steel furniture, collaborating with avant-garde architects like Marcel Breuer and Le CorbusierThonet. This fusion of tradition and modernism secured Thonet’s place as one of the most influential furniture manufacturers in history.
Today, Thonet’s products embody a dialogue between heritage and innovation. Its chairs, armchairs, tables, and lounge pieces retain the purity of line and structural honesty that defined the brand from the beginning. Bentwood remains central, celebrated for its organic elegance, while tubular steel collections express clarity and modernity. The company also explores canework and molded plywood, materials that highlight both sustainability and timeless craftsmanship