A Parsons chair is a special type of upholstered dining chair. The name has nothing to do with the clergy. The chair got its name from its origin: it was created in Paris in the 1930s by a designer from the famous Parsons School of Design.
In designing the chair, the Parsons School designers did not radically reinvent the idea of the chair (as, for example, the Bauhaus did in Germany). Instead, the designers streamlined historical influences, kept what worked, discarded what didn’t, and created an enduring modern classic. The main features of this, its naturalism, simplicity, and linear look, are classic modernist features, but the style reflects the Mission and Arts and Crafts styles of the 1800s, the Art Nouveau styles that emerged later, and the Art Deco that was contemporary in the Parsons chair design moment. The simplicity of the chair fits with these styles and with a wide variety of others, both classic and modern.
It was originally intended to be used in conjunction with the Parsons table, whose linear look reflects a similar aesthetic in the matching chair. However, with a bit of irony, the simplicity of both has led to them being adapted separately to many styles of furniture and decoration. The result? Nowadays, they are rarely seen together. Parsons styling is so adaptable that many who own a Parsons table or Parsons chair have no idea that complementary pieces exist. The Parsons chair is almost always made of hardwood and features a slightly curved square back and legs. They are usually presented with a sheath upholstery that completely covers the legs and gives a solid and monumental appearance. This cover is optional or absent on many recent models.
Most Parsons chairs today are direct clones of the original Parsons School design. However, there are many recent variations, including versions with cabriolet legs, Chippendale-influenced designs, lower or taller designs, and versions with armrests, more or less Art Nouveau or Art Deco inspired versions, etc. The original Parsons School design was upholstered in leather, and this remains a very popular upholstery option, although microfabrics are being used more and more. The wide variety of options available today should ensure that you will be able to find one that is right for you.
Due to its simplicity, comfort and ease of cleaning, the Parsons chair remains very popular, especially in restaurants. In fact, you may already have and enjoy one without realizing what it is. We hope that learning about the history of this chair will deepen your appreciation for this unique design.