The swivel chair has an illustrious origin: invented by Thomas Jefferson, the swivel chair made an appearance at the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia. Jefferson purportedly drafted the United States Declaration of Independence while ensconced in his swivel chair. A true visionary, Jefferson later adjusted his chair by adding a “writing paddle” onto its side, the equivalent of the contemporary tablet arm. Of course, anyone who’s ever sat in a swivel chair understands its appeal. You can turn to face others, move around the office, or simply spin yourself in circles for entertainment. It helps if the swivel chair is also pleasing to the eye. One modern swivel chair worth taking for a spin is Duet by Bernhardt Design.

Duet swivel chair. Designed by Joe Doucet. Manufactured by Bernhardt Design.

Swivel Chair That’s Just the Right Size

The perfect size for conference rooms, Duet is roomy enough to satisfy executives, yet its size is compact enough so that multiples of Duet won’t overcrowd office space. Both of Duet’s available arm styles feature slim silhouettes, a design detail that helps make the swivel chair a manageable size. Upholstered with or without horizontal panels, Duet also offers different styles: smooth and clean or banded and relaxed.

Thanks to the versatile design, Duet can go anywhere: it can surround a traditional oak conference table as easily as a sleek glass meeting table. It’s handsome enough to be paired with library tables in a home library, study, or den. Traditional or modern, fabric or leather, bright or neutral, office or residential— perhaps all these choices lend the swivel chair its Duet name.

About the Manufacturer: Bernhardt Design, a division of Bernhardt Furniture, was founded in 1983. A manufacturer of quality casegoods, conference and occasional tables, guest and lounge chairs, Bernhardt Design markets to architects and designers. Known for its excellent style, award-winning products, and renowned designers, Bernhardt Design maintains showrooms in New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles.