Vitra Chaise Tout Bois by Jean Prouvé
Best dining chair for design enthusiasts seeking timeless, sustainable wooden craftsmanship.
The Vitra Chaise Tout Bois, designed by Jean Prouvé in 1941, is a unique piece as it is the only chair by the French 'constructeur' made entirely out of wood. This design bears a strong resemblance to Prouvé's renowned Standard chair, but wood was used for the base instead of metal due to material scarcity during World War II. The chair's form cleverly addresses structural needs, particularly at the critical transition point between the seat and backrest where human anatomy exerts the most load. This load transfer is highlighted by the profile of the rear frame section, a signature element in Prouvé's work across furniture and architecture. The chair's construction is notable as it does not require a single screw. The seat and backrest are crafted from moulded plywood veneer, available in natural or dark-stained oak, finished with a protective natural lacquer. The solid wood base uses the same oak material. The wood originates from solid oak (Quercus robur) from Croatia for the main structure, with veneer wood sourced from the USA. The height and seat geometry align with current norms, matching the Standard chair. The warm aesthetic of the wood beautifully complements the practical, functional structural design typical of Prouvé. It was awarded in the 'Meubles de France' competition in 1947 for its potential in high-quality, mass-produced furnishings for post-war society.
$1430.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
2369
/ 11289
#2369 in Kitchen & Dining Room Chairs
Price vs Category Average
+138%
Above average
name
moulded plywood veneer in natural or dark-stained oak, protective natural lacquer finish
/ moulded plywood veneer in natural or dark-stained oak, protective natural lacquer finish
Who it's for
- Design collectors valuing mid-century historical significance
- Eco-conscious homeowners preferring natural, sustainable materials
- Minimalists seeking furniture built for lifelong structural reliability
Who should skip it
- People requiring ergonomic support for long dinner parties
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for affordable everyday seating
- Busy households needing low-maintenance, moisture-resistant furniture
Performance breakdown
Structural Integrity
Clever load-bearing design eliminates the need for any metal screws.
Ergonomic Geometry
Modernized dimensions ensure comfort that aligns with contemporary seating standards.
Material Authenticity
Premium solid oak construction honors the original wartime design constraints.
Aesthetic Versatility
Warm wood tones integrate seamlessly into both minimalist and traditional interiors.
Historical Significance
A rare, iconic piece representing Prouvé’s unique approach to functional design.
Surface Durability
Protective natural lacquer finish guards against daily wear and tear.
Key Specs
name
moulded plywood veneer in natural or dark-stained oak, protective natural lacquer finish
name
non-stackable solid wood base; same type of wood as backrest and seat in natural or dark-stained oak, protective natural lacquer finish
name
solid oak (Quercus robur) from Croatia, veneer wood from the USA
Features
- Made entirely out of wood
- Design similar to Standard chair but with a wooden base
- Structural strength emphasized at load points
- Construction does not require a single screw
- Height and seat geometry meet current norms
What customers say
The Vitra Chaise Tout Bois by Jean Prouvé receives overwhelmingly positive sentiment, positioning it not merely as furniture, but as a functional piece of art and a significant design investment. Customers consistently laud Vitra's faithful execution of Prouvé's original 1941 design, appreciating the chair's historical significance and timeless aesthetic. The craftsmanship is a major highlight; reviewers frequently praise the quality of the solid wood construction, noting its robust durability and the beautiful, natural finish. This focus on authentic, high-quality materials contributes significantly to the perception of the chair as an heirloom piece destined to last generations. While the comfort level is generally described as surprisingly good for a rigid wooden chaise, the primary driver for purchase is clearly the design pedigree and visual impact. The main point of friction, as anticipated for a high-end designer item, is the substantial price tag. However, the sentiment analysis reveals that buyers largely rationalize this cost, viewing the Chaise Tout Bois as a long-term investment that transcends typical furniture depreciation. The consensus is that the chair delivers exceptional quality and iconic design fidelity, making it a highly valued centerpiece for design aficionados and collectors.
Know before you buy
Yes, the chair is constructed entirely from wood. It relies on precise joinery and structural design rather than screws or bolts to maintain its stability.
The seat geometry and height are engineered to meet contemporary standards, providing an ergonomic experience similar to the iconic Standard chair. While it is a firm wooden seat, the design specifically accounts for weight distribution at the transition point between the seat and backrest.
Both finishes use high-quality oak and a protective natural lacquer. The natural finish highlights the light, organic grain of the wood, while the dark-stained version offers a more dramatic, sophisticated aesthetic that emphasizes the chair's architectural silhouette.
Jean Prouvé designed the chair in 1941 during World War II, when metal was scarce. He adapted his signature Standard chair design to be constructed entirely from wood without compromising the structural integrity or the load-bearing capabilities of the frame.
Absolutely. Its durable construction and protective lacquer finish make it well-suited for regular use. The design is intended to be both a functional piece of furniture and a lasting example of mid-century industrial design.
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