Yrjö Kukkapuro dining chairs

This is a rare set of six swivel-based dining or conference chairs designed by Finnish designer Yrjö Kukkapuro and produced by Haimi in Finland during the 1960s.

The chairs reflect Kukkapuro’s distinct approach to ergonomic form and material experimentation, aligning with the Finnish modernist movement that emphasized function, user comfort, and industrial innovation. Each chair features a molded shell constructed from brown plastic with sculpted fluting on the reverse, forming an organic silhouette with integrated armrests. The seat and backrest are upholstered in original brown velour fabric, which presents a soft, warm texture in contrast to the high-gloss plastic shell. The seats are generously proportioned and ergonomically contoured to provide lumbar and arm support. The base consists of a round chromed steel pedestal and disk, allowing for smooth swivel functionality, a feature that was both innovative and practical at the time of production.

Yrjö Kukkapuro, born in 1933, is considered one of Finland’s most important modernist designers. His career has been characterized by a consistent interest in the relationship between form and function, and his designs often bridge the gap between furniture design and industrial design. Kukkapuro’s collaboration with Haimi, a Finnish manufacturer known for its production of high-quality plastic and experimental materials, resulted in several landmark pieces during the 1960s and 1970s.

The chairs are structurally sound and retain their original finishes and upholstery. The plastic shells show minor signs of wear consistent with age and use, while the upholstery remains in very good vintage condition. Each chair carries the original Haimi manufacturer’s label on the underside.

Dimensions are 60 cm wide, 60 cm deep, and 76 cm high, with a seat height of 44 cm (equivalent to approximately 23.6 x 23.6 x 29.9 inches, seat height 17.3 inches). The set exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian innovation and design evolution through synthetic materials and modernist ergonomics.