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 designers at the Parsons School did not radically reinvent the idea of the chair (as, for example, the Bauhaus did in Germany). Instead, the designers simplified historical influences, kept what worked, scrapped what didn’t, and created an enduring modern classic. The main traits of this, its naturalism, simplicity, and linear look, are classic modernist traits, 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 moment of the design of the parsons chair. The simplicity of the chair fits in with these styles and a wide variety of others, both classic and modern.
Originally, it was 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 their separate adaptation to many styles of furniture and decoration. The result? Today, they are rarely seen together. The Parsons style 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 square, slightly curved back and legs. They usually come with slipcover upholstery that completely covers the legs, giving it a solid, 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, many recent variations exist, including versions with cabriolet legs, Chippendale-influenced designs, lower or higher designs, versions with armrests, versions more or less inspired by Art Nouveau or Art Deco, etc. The original Parsons School design was upholstered in leather, and this remains a very popular upholstery option, although micro-fabrics are increasingly being used. The wide variety of options available today should ensure that you’ll be able to find one that’s 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.