Design icons: the pieces that never fade

This photo shows the Louisiana design armchair by De Padova, used in the context of the Hipstoric design style

Design icons: the pieces that never fade away

Official design dealer

Design is a constantly evolving manifestation of art, but there are certain pieces that, regardless of the passage of time, remain timeless. These iconic design pieces have not only stood the test of time, but have also influenced generations of designers and continue to do so. Here are some of the most influential pieces of design that never fade.

1. The Barcelona Chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Considered a masterpiece of modern design, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona chair was designed for the 1929 World Expo in Barcelona. The chair, with its minimalist and elegant design, perfectly expresses van der Rohe's philosophy of 'less is more'. Although designed almost a century ago, the Barcelona chair remains a design landmark.

2. The Tolomeo abat-jour by Michele De Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina

The Tolomeo abat-jour, designed by Michele De Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina for Artemide in 1987, is a design piece that revolutionised the concept of domestic lighting. With its articulated structure and essential design, the Tolomeo abat-jour fits into any environment and style, making it a timeless design classic.

3. The Chesterfield Sofa

Although its origins date back to the 19th century, the Chesterfield sofa is another example of timeless design. With its characteristic quilting and armrests of the same height as the backrest, the Chesterfield sofa represents the pinnacle of British elegance and is perfectly suited to both classic and modern interiors.

4. The Eames Lounge Chair

Designed in 1956 by Charles and Ray Eames, the Eames Lounge Chair has become a symbol of 20th century design. With its combination of curved wood and leather, the Eames Lounge Chair is the embodiment of comfort and elegance. Its modern, minimalist design makes it a design piece suitable for any interior.

5. The Tulip Table by Eero Saarinen

The Tulip table, designed by Eero Saarinen in 1956, is an icon of modern design. With its central pedestal that eliminates the need for cumbersome legs, the Tulip table stands out for its simplicity and functionality. Its clean design and curved lines make it a versatile design piece that fits in with any style of décor.

This photo shows the Tulip table with the Knoll chair, sold by Peverelli

6. The Panton Chair

Designed by Verner Panton in 1960, the Panton Chair was the first chair made from a single piece of plastic. Its fluid, sinuous shape has become an icon of modern design.

7. The Arco Chandelier by Achille Castiglioni

The Arco chandelier, designed by Achille Castiglioni in 1962, is a combination of form and function. With its long arc and heavy marble pedestal, the Arco chandelier is a piece of design that never fades.

8. The Wassily Chair by Marcel Breuer

Marcel Breuer designed the Wassily Chair in 1925 while working at the Bauhaus. Made of steel tubing and leather, the Wassily Chair is an example of modern design.

9. The Noguchi Table by Isamu Noguchi

Designed by Isamu Noguchi in 1947, the Noguchi Table is a fusion of art and design. With its sculptural wooden base and glass top, the Noguchi Table is an icon of modern design.

10. Gae Aulenti's Bat Lamp

The Pipistrello Lamp, designed by Gae Aulenti in 1965, is a piece of design that has stood the test of time. With its unique shape resembling the wings of a bat, the Pipistrello Lamp is an icon of Italian design.

11. Philippe Starck's Ghost Chair

The Ghost Chair, designed by Philippe Starck in 2002, is a transparent polycarbonate reinterpretation of the classic Louis XVI chair. Despite being designed relatively recently, the Ghost Chair is already considered a design icon.

12. The Le Corbusier LC2 Sofa

Designed by Le Corbusier in 1928, the LC2 sofa represents a revolution in furniture design. With its steel frame and upholstered cushions, the LC2 sofa combines form and function in a way that is still relevant today.

13. The Florence Knoll sideboard

Designed by Florence Knoll in 1954, this sideboard is an example of functional elegance. With its steel frame and wooden drawers, the Florence Knoll sideboard is a modern design classic.

14. The Butterfly Chair by Jorge Ferrari-Hardoy

Also known as the BKF Chair or Hardoy Chair, the Butterfly Chair was designed by Jorge Ferrari-Hardoy in 1938. With its steel frame and canvas seat, the Butterfly Chair is a simple yet charming design piece.

15. The Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen

Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1958 for the Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, the Egg Chair has become a symbol of Scandinavian design. With its curved lines and enveloping design, the Egg Chair offers timeless comfort and style.