Parsons chairs may be slipcovered or upholstered.
The parsons chair is a simple, classic seat with a tall, straight upholstered back, an upholstered seat and straight exposed wooden legs. First unveiled in Paris in the 1930s, this chair has endured because of its comfort and adaptability to many decorating styles. The versatile parsons chair is used primarily at a dining table, but it also can be placed at a writing desk or in a foyer or other small space. Does this Spark an idea?
History
The parsons chair takes its name from its birthplace: The Parsons School of Design. A designer at the decorating school in Paris invented it in the 1930s. The chair, originally upholstered in leather, combined elements of Modernism with the styles of Mission, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Its simplicity was echoed in its companion piece, the unadorned, straight-legged parsons table.
Construction
Parsons chairs are usually constructed of hardwood. The wooden legs can be exposed, tightly upholstered or concealed with a floor-length slipcover. The back and seat are upholstered in fabric or leather and can be lightly or heavily padded. Though the chair has no arms, it projects a sturdy image. The tall, rectangular back usually comes to a diner's shoulder height, providing comfort and support.
Styles
The versatility of the parsons chair is one of its best qualities. It can fit into any decor and comes in contemporary or traditional looks. Parsons chairs with skirts, scroll backs, wing backs, camel backs, nail-head trim or slipcovers are more traditional in appearance. Parsons chairs lacking adornment and upholstered in leather, suede, microfiber or a solid fabric have a contemporary appearance.
Upholstery
Because the parsons chair is linear and spare in design, the upholstery chosen to cover it becomes the focal point. Sleek black leather parsons chairs project a modern vibe. Red-and-white toile upholstery injects a dose of tradition. Checkered fabric transforms the look into country-estate style. Floor-length, tailored, monogrammed slipcovers adds romance to a dining room.
Tags: parsons chair, Parsons chairs, upholstered leather, wooden legs