Gerrit Thomas Rietveld (1888–1964) was a Dutch architect and furniture designer, best known for his contributions to the De Stijl movement and his innovative approach to modernist design. His most recognized works include the Red and Blue Chair (1918) and the Schröder House (1924), both of which exemplify the geometric abstraction and functionalist principles of De Stijl. Rietveld also designed the Utrecht seating series (1935), a striking example of early modernist upholstered furniture. His work was influential in shaping 20th-century architecture and furniture design, bridging the gap between art and industrial production.

Upholstery: Custom Selection of Fabric or Leather from Archetype Forms

Padding: Variable-Density Polyurethane Foam

Frame Structure: Steel Rod with Elastic

Armrest Structure: Solid Wood

Feet: Black Plastic

Decorative Stitching: Contrast or Tonal Zig Zag or Blanket

• Stitching can be contrasted with a variety of colours, or tonal-matched to the colour of selected upholstery.

Utrecht De Stijl Lounge Chair XL

The De Stijl XL Lounge Chair by Archetype Forms is a tribute to an iconic work of the pioneering Gerrit Thomas Rietveld, a luminary in the world of modernist design. Rietveld’s innovative approach to design marked a defining moment in the evolution of furniture, bringing a paradigm shift that still resonates today.

Part of the De Stijl movement, Rietveld changed how we perceive furniture, transforming it from mere utility to an intersection of function and form. His designs symbolized a departure from the prevailing ornamentation, embracing minimalism and abstraction. The creations were a harmonious blend of simple geometric shapes, advocating for the unity of form and function.

Our De Stijl XL Lounge Chair encapsulates this ground-breaking vision. Built with a strong inner frame of tubular steel, the chair reflects Rietveld's innovative use of non-traditional materials in furniture design. The polyurethane foam and polyester batting padding harmonize comfort with minimalist aesthetics, reflecting Rietveld's commitment to creating user-friendly designs without compromising the visual appeal.

The detailed craftsmanship is visible in the signature stitching - a choice between zig-zag or blanket style - and the customizable options of fabric, suede, or leather upholstery. This nods to Rietveld’s belief in individuality within design. Each element is a perfect fusion of De Stijl ethos, striking a balance between universality and uniqueness.

Rietveld’s designs ushered in a new era of furniture design, one that resonated deeply with the public. His radical yet captivating approach stood as a breath of fresh air, leading a wave of change within the industry towards more minimalist, functional furniture. The De Stijl XL Lounge Chair echoes this progressive history and embodies the continuous influence of Rietveld on contemporary design, upholding his legacy while adapting to the demands and customization of modern living.

Archetype Forms in Vancouver, BC, Canada, is delighted to bring this homage to the iconic design to the Greater Vancouver and The Lower Mainland. In our tribute chair, we ensure precision and devotion to Rietveld's original vision and specifications, bringing history into your living room. Experience a tangible piece of design history with Archetype Forms, where we blend the timelessness of classic designs with the uniqueness of individual spaces.

Buy the Utrecht XL Chair, originally designed by Gerrit Thomas Rietveld, online in Canada & the USA.