Scissor Chair by Geiger part of the Herman Miller Collection designed by Ward Bennett
At A Glance: A true icon of modern furniture, the Ward Bennett Scissor Chair first appeared in 1964 and has been a staple of the design enthusiast's collection ever since. Available with a wood or metal frame, the Scissor Chair gives you the ability to add a softer touch to your space, or go completely modern with its welded tubular steel frame. The seat and back are angled to provide maximum comfort. The Scissor Chair is the perfect addition to any home or office, and it is definitely an impactful piece.
What's To Like:
First of all, we'll give the Scissor Chair marks for originality. Well, the marks really go to Ward Bennett, but you know what we mean. This is a lounge chair unlike any other.
Material quality and construction integrity are top-notch. You'd expect that from any manufacturer with the kind of reputation that Herman Miller enjoys.
Bennett used industrial materials for strength and the look, but the upholstery betrays a softer side - a very cushy one.
What's Not to Like: It is possible that some (especially our taller compatriots) will find the chair's angle and seat height uncomfortable. Having said that, people under 5'10" will probably love it.
The Bottom Line: The Geiger Scissor Chair by Ward Bennett is a sterling example of the best of modern furniture. Brought out of the stylistic revolution that was the mid-century, it's earned a reputation in its own right.
Details:
24" w x 30" d x 33" h
Foam and Dacron over plywood seat
Frame available in solid as or welded tubular steel
Considered the first American designer to use industrial materials for home furnishings, Ward Bennett pioneered modern and simplistic design in furniture. Ward Bennett began his design journey in the clothing industry in New York City. At age 13 he quit school to begin designing clothing and at 16 left New York City for Europe. Mostly self taught, Ward Bennett eventually returned to New York City where he designed furniture and interior layouts for some of the most recognizable names of that era: David Rockefeller, Chase Manhattan Bank, Rolling Stone founder Jann Wenner, Lyndon B Johnson, and more. While his designs are certainly beautiful, modern works, above all Ward Bennett focused on comfort and functionality, always striving for the perfect user experience. Bennett often incorporated industrial elements in his designs and shied away from excess, relying on simple, elegant and functional forms to carry his work. During the 1980s Bennett partnered with Geiger international, eventually becoming responsible for the creative direction of the company during the 1980s and 1990s. Today some of his most iconic pieces, like the Scissor and Sled Chairs are proudly produced by Geiger, preserving Bennett's work while holding true to his principles of simplicity and comfort.
Founded by John Geiger in 1964 Geiger Furniture began as Interiors International Limited, a small 4-man operation based in Toronto that produced design-minded office furniture. Steadily expanding throughout the 20th century, Geiger initially focused on modular office furniture and case goods that could be customized as office needs changed. In keeping with this commitment to flexibility, Geiger stressed the importance craftsmanship and quality construction in its use of wood furniture. With quality construction and beautiful wood finishes Geiger pieces easily fit in most settings and seem to adapt to any change in current styles.
In the 1980s Geiger paired with Ward Bennett, a partnership that would lead to numerous awards throughout the 80s and 90s. Today, Geiger produces many of Ward Bennett's most iconic designs, holding true to Bennett's principles of beauty and simplicity. Geiger strives to not only produce top-quality furniture for the home and office but to do so responsibly, in a way that preserves the earth's precious resources. In 2010 Geiger met two ambitious sustainability goals: using 100 percent green electrical energy and reaching zero landfill status during its production process. Sustainability, functionality, beauty, these traits have helped make Geiger a staple of the furniture industry for more than half a century.
Materials: Frame: solid ash or welded tubular steel Upholstery: polyester and blend fabrics Seat: Foam and Dacron over plywood Back: FR foam over hardwood insert
Dimensions: 24" w x 30" d x 33" h Seat height: 15.5"
