66 chair - white - OFFER - Artek

Design and features

The 66 chair is made primarily from Finnish birch, a wood that is light, durable and aesthetically pleasing. The legs and seat edge are solid birch, while the seat is birch veneer and the back is thermoformed birch plywood. Variations include lacquered finishes (clear, black, white), seats in black linoleum, white HPL, or even fabric or leather upholstery (without padding in some options).

The chair is famous for its L-shaped legs, a technical innovation patented by Aalto in 1933. This design allows the legs to be fixed directly under the seat without the need for an additional frame or structure, offering exceptional stability and a sleek silhouette. Its design follows in the tradition of kitchen and café chairs, with a visible, additive construction that gives it character. The wide, slightly curved, handle-shaped backrest makes it easy to move around, while offering comfort and flexibility. The organic shapes and rounded lines reflect the influence of Bauhaus and Aalto's approach to natural materials and flowing curves.

Historical context

Designed in 1935, the 66 chair coincides with the founding of Artek by Alvar Aalto, his wife Aino, Maire Gullichsen and Nils-Gustav Hahl. Artek aimed to produce modern furniture while promoting an innovative living culture. The 66 chair became one of the brand's flagship pieces, still produced today. Aalto, a pioneer in the use of laminated and bent wood, began experimenting with bending techniques in 1927, in collaboration with Otto Korhonen. The L-shaped leg, the result of these experiments, revolutionized furniture design, enabling lighter, stronger structures. The 66 chair is on display in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, testifying to its status as a design icon. It remains one of Aalto's most popular dining chairs.

Use and versatility

The 66 chair is designed to be universal, fitting equally well into private spaces (dining rooms, kitchens) and public areas (cafés, restaurants, offices, museums). Its lightness, portability (thanks to the handle-shaped backrest) and sturdiness make it a practical choice for a variety of environments. It is available in a range of finishes and colors, allowing customization according to aesthetic needs.

Heritage and impact

The 66 chair embodies the principles of Scandinavian design: functionality, simplicity and organic beauty. Aalto eschewed mechanical aesthetics and modern artificial materials, preferring a warm, humanistic approach. Made from birch from sustainably managed forests, the chair reflects Artek's commitment to quality and the environment. Its sturdy construction guarantees longevity, as evidenced by the vintage 1970s models still in circulation.66 helped establish the worldwide reputation of Artek and Finnish design. It remains a benchmark for design enthusiasts and is often used in contemporary architectural and decorative projects.

Conclusion

Artek's 66 chair is much more than just a piece of furniture: it's an iconic piece that combines technical innovation, organic aesthetics and versatility. Its timeless design, rooted in Alvar Aalto's philosophy and Artek's mission, continues to appeal to design enthusiasts the world over. Whether for a domestic interior or a public space, it remains a safe bet, at the crossroads of history, craftsmanship and modernity.