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A masterpiece of modern furniture design, the Domus Chair was created as part of a series of furniture for the Domus Academica student housing complex in Helsinki. Comfortable enough to allow sitting for long periods of time, the Domus Chair achieved great success internationally, becoming known as “The Finn Chair.” The characteristic short arms mean that the Domus Chair can be pulled close to a table, perfect for studying at a desk and dining, while offering the necessary support and comfort. Designed in 1946 by Ilmari Tapiovaara, Domus Chairs have been placed in homes and public spaces around the world ever since.

About Designer
Ilmari Tapiovaara

Ilmari Tapiovaara (1914-1999) was one of the greatest interior architects and designers of his era. With the mind of an explorer and the soul of a craftsman, Tapiovaara was always looking for new solutions to improve everyday objects. During his long career, Tapiovaara created dozens of iconic objects loved by the public; it is often said that he captured the essence of Finnish identity.

Tapiovaara graduated from the Department of Furniture Design at the Central School of Applied Arts in Helsinki in 1937. After completing his studies, he worked as an assistant at Le Corbusier’s office in Paris before becoming artistic director and designer at Asko Oy, then one of Finland’s largest furniture manufacturers. From 1946 to 1947, Tapiovaara designed furniture together with his wife Annikki for Domus Academica, the new student housing facility in Helsinki. It was in the course of this project that the famous Domus Chair was born.