2021 or 1950?

Carl Hansen & Son’s Plico Chair may have you doubting your eyes, as this clever and streamlined piece has many of the hallmark features of mid-century modern design.

First, it obeys the dictum of form following function. The entire substance and structure is exteriorized—from the solid oak frame to the saddle leather armrests to the brass fittings and stitched linen seat and back.

Next, it relishes clean lines: this chair is a celebration of right angles, with the possible exception of the subtle lip of the back legs, which to my eye evokes classic cross country skis—another icon of the Modern Scandinavian aesthetic.

And third, it makes great use of space. For this is, in fact, a fold-able chair (“Plico” is Latin for “fold”). The tension easily comes off those cool armrests and the entire apparatus converts into a neat rectangle.

Design duo Fabricius Kastholm set out to “create an honest design that beautifully highlights what others often seek to hide.”

Indeed, there’s no subterfuge here. Every element of this wonderful chair is proudly on display.

Carl Hansen & Son offers two versions: FK 10 (high-back) and FK 11 (low). Find out more and specify yours here. And go to Designer Pages Media to check out other mid-century modern designs.