Welcome to Furniture Friday! Today, we explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic design legacy through two new collections from Steelcase, created in collaboration with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. The Rockford and Galesburg collections breathe new life into Wright’s mid-century Usonian aesthetics, blending historical elegance with modern functionality to suit today’s lifestyles.
Designer: Steelcase + Frank Lloyd Wright
Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy of “organic architecture” emphasized the integration of human habitats with their environment. This principle is beautifully manifested in the Rockford and Galesburg collections, which draw directly from Wright’s archival designs. These collections honor their historical roots while offering pieces that meet modern needs.
The Rockford Collection is inspired by Wright’s Laurent house, a project designed for a disabled veteran. The collection features a lounge chair that maintains the original’s focus on accessibility but updates it with modern materials such as plywood. Accompanying the chair are movable seating and polygonal tables designed to enhance interaction and serve practical daily use.
Continuing this theme, the Galesburg Collection transforms the built-in banquettes of Wright’s Usonian homes into standalone pieces suitable for modern settings. The collection includes sofas, sectionals, and lounge chairs characterized by clean lines and geometric shapes, reflecting Wright’s architectural finesse. These pieces merge historical inspiration with contemporary needs, making them perfect for home and office environments.
A key element of both collections is using plywood, a material Wright favored for its versatility. In these designs, plywood is celebrated as a main feature, highlighting its durability and aesthetic appeal. The modern, understated upholstery complements the wooden structures, enhancing the overall experience and focusing on quality craftsmanship.
The collaboration between Steelcase and the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation goes beyond a typical business partnership. It actively engages with historical contexts, aiming to adapt Wright’s innovative designs to contemporary needs. This partnership began with Wright’s designs for the SC Johnson Administration Building 80 years ago and continues to ensure his architectural philosophies remain influential in today’s spaces.
By introducing Wright’s timeless designs into everyday environments, Steelcase honors his architectural legacy while demonstrating that thoughtful design continues to enhance human experiences and environments. These collections show that great design effectively bridges historical heritage with modern functionality, impacting how we live and work today.