Here at Nest.co.uk we're all big fans of innovative furniture company Artifort. We love the brightly coloured upholstery and iconic shapes of their designs. But what's Artifort's story? Today we take a brief look at the history behind one of the most notable furniture companies.
It all began in 1890 when founder Jules Wagemans started an upholstery company in Maastricht, the Netherlands. Soon after, Jules' son, Henricus, expanded the company into a furniture factory and things really began to take off. During the 1930s they created a distinctive profile for themselves to set them apart from other furniture designers of the time. They did this by creating furniture that was both eye-catching and innovative, as well as being comfortable and of the highest possible quality. Their aim was to combine art with comfort - a principle that is central to the company to this day.
By the 1960s, after collaborating with iconic designers Kho Liang Ie and Pierre Paulin, Artifort became a runaway success. The legendary Orange Slice Lounge Chair, designed by Pierre Paulin, was unveiled in 1960 and has been a best-seller ever since - it even had its own 50-year anniversary party at Interieur Kortrijk in 2010. In 1966, Paulin created another iconic design - the Ribbon Lounge Chair. Both of these designs have earned classic status and have been rewarded by their inclusion in the MOMA in New York. Other notable designs produced by Artifort include the Tulip Lounge Chair, the Little Apollo Swivel Chair and, my personal favourite, the Libel Lounge Chair, all of which are available to buy here at Nest.co.uk
Do you have a favourite Artifort design? Let us know, we'd love to hear!
