Axel Larsson & Sven Carlsöö office chair

This office chair was designed by Swedish designers Axel Larsson and Sven Carlsöö and produced by Verkstads AB Lindqvist in Motala, Sweden. It exemplifies the fusion of early ergonomic awareness with restrained industrial aesthetics characteristic of Scandinavian office furniture during the mid-20th century.

The chair is constructed with a combination of natural wood and industrial metal components, likely oak for the seat and backrest surfaces, paired with a metal frame for strength and adjustability. The backrest is vertically oriented with a gentle curve, offering lumbar support, while the seat is subtly contoured for comfort over extended periods. The metal base is designed to ensure stability and includes an integrated mechanism allowing the seat height to be adjusted between 40 cm and 55 cm (approximately 15.7 to 21.7 inches), accommodating a range of user preferences and desk heights.

The design is rational and functional, in keeping with the period’s emphasis on utility without decorative excess. The proportions are balanced, with a slight backward lean in the backrest and a firm stance provided by the stable base. The frame likely shows minor signs of wear consistent with age and use, preserving the chair’s utilitarian integrity and period character.

Axel Larsson (1898–1975) was a leading figure in Swedish functionalism, known for his work with Svenska Möbelfabrikerna and his refined approach to public and institutional furniture. Sven Carlsöö collaborated with Larsson on projects that prioritized utility and understated design, particularly in workplace and architectural contexts. Their shared approach focused on simplicity, durability, and adaptability, making them well-suited for the development of practical office furnishings during the mid-20th century.

Verkstads AB Lindqvist, the producing firm based in Motala, Sweden, specialized in precision metalwork and was known for manufacturing durable, high-quality industrial and institutional furnishings. Their collaboration with designers like Larsson and Carlsöö reflects their ability to execute technically advanced designs with mechanical features such as adjustable seating.

The chair measures 64 cm in width, 53 cm in depth, 90 cm in overall height, and the seat height ranges from 40 to 55 cm. These dimensions translate approximately to 25.2 inches wide, 20.9 inches deep, 35.4 inches high, with an adjustable seat height between 15.7 and 21.7 inches.