Richard Schultz Makes 1966 Look New Again

Richard Schultz has added many new pieces to his 1966 line of outdoor furniture, which was originally designed “in 1966 at the request of Florence Knoll, who wanted well-designed outdoor furnishings that would withstand the corrosive salt air at her home in Florida.” The classic design of the 1966 collection continues to look fresh and timely today, which is due to the Richard Schultz company, whose “furniture relates to a deep interest in sculptural form and its relation to nature and man.” Since it needed to resist ocean wind and high humidity, the 1966 collection used strong materials.

1966 Collection. Designed by Richard Schultz.

The frames are cast and extruded aluminum finished in weather-resistant polyester powder coat; upholstery is woven vinyl-coated polyester mesh with 100% vinyl straps; connectors and supports are stainless steel; and table tops are porcelain enamel on steel, vertical grain teak, or laminated bamboo with a lacquer finish. Frames are available in multiple colors: white, camel, silver, black, and chestnut; the mesh is available in even more colors: all of the above, plus aluminum, bronze, and sprout. The table tops can add a punch of intense color, such as red or marine blue porcelain.

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The shapes of the collection are sleek and simple—that has not changed. What has changed is the range of furniture available. New this year is the Twinseat Lounge Chair with Arms, a two-seater that measures 46″ wide. Also new are the Single and Double Rockers, a duo I simply can’t get enough of. For outdoor furniture, there is always a lot in the way of reclining—the standard being the adjustable chaise. But rocking has been unjustly ignored. Now, with 1966’s Rockers, an entire range of relaxing poses is at hand. The famous 1966 tables have gotten a decidedly different look too, with bamboo or teak tops—all sizes and styles, including coffee, dining, and cafe tables. New additions to 1966 also include bar and counter height chairs and tables. The line of outdoor furniture now has something for everyone. A seating group of 1966 furniture in all black is modern and masculine; rockers in sprout are playful and crisp; bar height tables and chairs in silver are current and hip; and chaise lounges in white are classic and nautical. 1966 elements can go from poolside California to mountain-view Colorado, from salty Florida to rainy Oregon.

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