The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw sweeping social change and major scientific advances — both of which contributed to a new aesthetic: modernism. Rejecting the rigidity of Victorian artistic conventions, modernists sought a new means of expression. References to the natural world and ornate classical embellishments gave way to the sleek simplicity of the Machine Age. Architect Philip Johnson characterized the hallmarks of modernism as “machine-like simplicity, smoothness or surface [and] avoidance of ornament.”
Early practitioners of modernist design include the De Stijl (“The Style”) group, founded in the Netherlands in 1917, and the Bauhaus School, founded two years later in Germany.
Followers of both groups produced sleek, spare designs — many of which became icons of daily life in the 20th century. The modernists rejected both natural and historical references and relied primarily on industrial materials such as metal, glass, plywood, and, later, plastics. While Bauhaus principals Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created furniture from mass-produced, chrome-plated steel, American visionaries like Charles and Ray Eames worked in materials as novel as molded plywood and fiberglass. Today, Breuer’s Wassily chair, Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona chair — crafted with his romantic partner, designer Lilly Reich — and the Eames lounge chair are emblems of progressive design and vintage originals are prized cornerstones of collections.
It’s difficult to overstate the influence that modernism continues to wield over designers and architects — and equally difficult to overstate how revolutionary it was when it first appeared a century ago. But because modernist furniture designs are so simple, they can blend in seamlessly with just about any type of décor. Don’t overlook them.
$54,155 / item
Settebello Modular Gray Sofa by Lorenza Bozzoli
By Ghidini 1961
Located in Milan, IT
A sculptural lounge piece by Lorenza Bozzoli, defined by its generous proportions and sinuous, enveloping silhouette. The plush velvet upholstery in Cayenne red is enlivened by deep ...
Textile
Wireframe Three Seat Sofa by Sam Hecht and Kim Colin for Herman Miller
By Sam Hecht + Kim Colin, Herman Miller
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Herman Miller Wireframe Three-Seat Sofa by Sam Hecht & Kim Colin Designed by Sam Hecht and Kim Colin for Herman Miller, the Wireframe Sofa pairs generous upholstered cushions w...
Steel
Tyler Hays for BDDW Caubeen Sofa in Boucle' and Walnut
Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA
Built entirely from scratch and upholstered by hand in the BDDW Pennsylvania workshop. The legs are carved from walnut, and the sofa is covered in boucle' fabric.
Bouclé, Walnut
Contemporary Architectural Sofa in Linen-Toned Upholstery with Ivory Bouclé
By JLC
Located in New York, NY
Defined by its enveloping silhouette and distinctive double-back construction, this contemporary sofa combines generous upholstery with a refined architectural presence. The layered ...
Metal
$2,240Sale Price|20% Off
Michiel Van Der Kley Orange Isobel Sofa for Artifort, 2000s
By Artifort
Located in Miami, FL
Isobel sofa in original Kravdat Tonus 4 orange fabric designed by Michiel Van Der Kley for Artifort, 2000s. The Isobel sofa is characterized by its retro-futuristic look. Designer v...
Steel
Modern Nancy Corzine Easton Armless Loveseat Sofa
Located in LOS ANGELES, CA
Modern Nancy Corzine Easton Armless Loveseat Sofa.
Linen, Feathers
Børge Mogensen - Spoke-Back Sofa BM 1789, Fritz Hansen, 1966
By Børge Mogensen, Fritz Hansen
Located in Kastrup, DK
Børge Mogensen (1914–1972). Spoke-Back Sofa, model BM 1789, crafted in lacquered beech with a spindle back and woven seat. The sofa retains its original cushions upholstered in dark...
Leather, Wool, Beech
Patricia Urquiola Vidalenta Sofa for Cassina, Modern Metal Frame
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Patricia Urquiola Vidalenta Sofa for Cassina The Vidalenta sofa interprets the outdoors as a peaceful retreat to enjoy. A system for the living area with an enveloping aesthetic, in...
Metal
Burl-Framed Perception Bench or Loveseat by Known Work w/Customizable Fabric
By Known Work
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A graceful articulation of comfort through form, the Perceptions Bench explores the relationship between upholstery and framework. Its soft, sculpted interior creates cozy contours w...
Upholstery, Maple
$7,685 / item
Plush Modular Modern Sofa in Maharam Velvet
Located in Nyack, NY
The Plush Modular Modern Sofa Collection boasts extremely luxurious proportions: a low back, massive seat cushions, an ultra-thin deck, and some of the most indulgently comfortable c...
Fabric
$18,975 / item
Plush Modular Modern Sofa in Maharam Corduroy
Located in Nyack, NY
The Plush Modular Modern Sofa Collection boasts extremely luxurious proportions: a low back, massive seat cushions, an ultra-thin deck, and some of the most indulgently comfortable c...
Fabric
$18,975 / item
Plush Modular Modern Sofa in Premium Belgian Linen
Located in Nyack, NY
The Plush Modular Modern Sofa Collection boasts extremely luxurious proportions: a low back, massive seat cushions, an ultra-thin deck, and some of the most indulgently comfortable c...
Fabric
Louisa Curved Sofa in Belgian Linen, Handcrafted in Belgium, Custom Sizes
Located in Amsterdam, NL
With its fixed seat and gently curved back and armrests, the Louisa sofa embodies effortless elegance. Slim upholstered armrests enhance comfort while preserving a sense of lightness...
Linen, Hemp, Wood
Moss Modular Sofa C004 - Dhogar col. 023 (or any Fabric cat. A)
By Mohdern
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The Moss collection draws inspiration from the softness and organic shapes of moss, offering a relaxed, natural aesthetic. This sofa collection boasts a unique, plush design with sof...
Fabric, Upholstery, Velvet, Coating
$6,826Sale Price / item|20% Off
Contemporary Channeled Fleure 3 seater Sofa in Dedar Verde Velvet Brass Legs.
By Stuart Scott
Located in Trowbridge, Wiltshire
The Award winning Fleure Signature Edition is our latest revival of the award winning Fleure 3 Seater Sofa, reimagined in this premium cotton velvet upholstery. This signature piece...
Brass
Contemporary Sculptural Sofa with Double-Layered Back in Tailored Upholstery
Located in New York, NY
A contemporary three-seater sofa defined by a low profile and a continuous, rounded silhouette. The design features a gently curved backrest that flows seamlessly into the armrests, ...
Velvet, Wood
Avant-Garde Minimalist Sofa Ft. Cape-like Fabric Draped Over the Armrests
Located in New York, NY
This sculptural sofa draws inspiration from the bold pleated structure of traditional Scottish kilts, translating the garment’s rhythmic folds into a striking upholstered form. The d...
Upholstery, Velvet
Sculptural Curved Segmented Sofa in High Resistant Rich Tobacco Velvet
Located in New York, NY
Defining the contemporary living space with its fluid, organic silhouette, this fully upholstered two-piece modular sectional sofa is a masterclass in sculptural comfort. The design ...
Foam, Wood, Fabric
Handmade Velvet Sculptural Sofa by Munna Design Studio in Europe
Located in New York, NY
Grounded in a modernist sculptural tradition, this sofa combines generous volumes with sweeping, continuous lines to create an enveloping and sophisticated profile. Its seamless silh...
Upholstery, Velvet, Wood
Ron Arad Do-Lo-Rez by Moroso Sofa, Modern Italian Design, 2009
By Ron Arad
Located in Miami, FL
A spectacular and highly sculptural Do-Lo-Rez modular sofa designed by Ron Arad for Moroso, introduced in 2008. Inspired by the pixel—the fundamental unit of a digital image—and rese...
Fabric, Wood
Riva 1920 Nudo Sofa In Solid Walnut Wood Structure, Collectible Contemporary
By Riva 1920
Located in New York, NY
A luxurious sofa featuring a solid american walnut wood structure defined by extraordinary, exposed dovetail joints that create a continuous, flowing line around the back and sides. ...
Fabric, Walnut
Moss Modular Sofa C004 - Leather col. Sequoia 027 (or any Leather cat. A)
By Mohdern
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The Moss collection draws inspiration from the softness and organic shapes of moss, offering a relaxed, natural aesthetic. This sofa collection boasts a unique, plush design with sof...
Fabric, Upholstery, Velvet, Coating
Moss Modular Sofa C003 - Sancho col. 030 (or any Fabric cat. A)
By Mohdern
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The Moss collection draws inspiration from the softness and organic shapes of moss, offering a relaxed, natural aesthetic. This sofa collection boasts a unique, plush design with sof...
Leather, Upholstery, Coating
Vladimir Kagan "Omnibus" Black Suede Upholstered Sofa
Located in Astoria, NY
Vladimir Kagan "Omnibus" Black Suede Upholstered Sofa, with lucite base. 28" H x 120" W x 32" D; seat: 17" H. Provenance: From a SoHo, New York Collection.
Suede, Upholstery, Lucite
$7,720 / item
Retro Roll Arm Sofa in Maharam Velvet
Located in Nyack, NY
Our retro take on a roll arm sofa. Cylindrical arms, a deep bench seat, and split back cushions sit atop an ultra-thin deck elevated on cylindrical steel legs to create a sleek, retr...
Fabric
Art Deco Inspired Curved Sofa, Hand-Tailored Upholstery by Munna Design Studio
Located in New York, NY
This sculptural sofa is defined by a refined fan-shaped backrest, a signature Art Deco gesture reinterpreted through a continuous, fluid silhouette. The curved arms and enveloping ba...
Velvet
Contemporary Sculptural Sofa with Wavy Feminine Silhouette In Dusty Rose Velvet
Located in New York, NY
This sculptural sofa is defined by its fluid silhouette and continuous curved backrest, creating an elegant architectural profile that feels both timeless and contemporary. The softl...
Upholstery, Velvet, Wood
$7,520 / item
Super-plush Organic Modern Sofa in Maharam Beck
Located in Nyack, NY
This sofa's deep, ultra-plush cushions invite you to sink in, while the soft, organic curves and gently arched back add an elegant touch to any space. Crafted with the highest qualit...
Fabric
$6,742Sale Price|25% Off
Flexform Soft Dream 2 Seater Leather Sofa designed by Antonio Citterio
Located in Bern, BE
Flexform Soft Dream 2 Seater Leather Sofa (Pelle 2 823) designed by Antonio Citterio. With two matching cushions. New purchase price inc. cushions: CHF 11'140.- (This is a shop disp...
Steel
Iconinc Afra & Tobia Scarpa, Soriana Sofa for Cassina, Italy 1970's
By Cassina, Afra & Tobia Scarpa
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Iconic and highly collectible Soriana sofa designed by Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Cassina, one of the most celebrated examples of Italian modern design from the 1970s. Winner of the Com...
Fabric
Three-Piece Modular Sectional Sofa in Ochre Velvet with Dark Wood Plinth Base
Located in New York, NY
Wrapped in richly textured ochre velvet, this sculptural modular sofa is defined by its fluid silhouette, generous proportions, and softly rounded geometry. Three individual modules ...
Velvet, Foam, Wood
Art Deco Style Sofa Covered In Olive Velvet By Munna Design
Located in New York, NY
A contemporary upholstered sofa defined by a low, elongated silhouette and a continuous, sculptural profile. The form is characterized by a gently curved backrest that flows seamless...
Velvet, Upholstery, Wood
Moss Modular Sofa C005 & ottoman - Nubuck col. Sage (or any Leather cat. A)
By Mohdern
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The Moss collection draws inspiration from the softness and organic shapes of moss, offering a relaxed, natural aesthetic. This sofa collection boasts a unique, plush design with sof...
Leather, Upholstery, Coating
$25,067 / item
Patricia Urquiola Vidalenta Sofa for Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Patricia Urquiola Vidalenta Sofa for Cassina The Vidalenta sofa interprets the outdoors as a peaceful retreat to enjoy. A system for the living area with an enveloping aesthetic, in...
Metal
Ripple Sofa – Angular Curved Silhouette with Carved Wood Base-Sidani Design
Located in New York, NY
The Ripple sofa draws from the soft rhythm of water and air, vertical lines echoing ripples, pillars and sculpted silence. Its base anchors the form, while the upholstered seat float...
Upholstery, Wood
1980s Cognac Leather Piumotto 3 Seat Sofa by Arrigo Arrigoni for Busnelli 1980s
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Cognac leather Piumotto 3S sofa designed by Italian architect Arrigo Arrigoni for Busnelli in the 1980s. Three generously scaled back cushions sit above three deep seat cushions, all...
Leather
Black Leather Togo 3 seater Sofa Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset
By Michel Ducaroy, Ligne Roset
Located in Radomsko, Województwo łódzkie
Classic French Togo by Michel Ducaroy for luxury brand Ligne Roset. Originally designed in the 1970s the iconic Togo sofa is now a design classic. Timeless comfort and style make thi...
Leather
Black Leather Sofa by COR, Germany
By COR
Located in Miami, FL
Black Leather Sofa by COR, made in Germany. Great quality.
Aluminum
Super-plush Oversized Organic Modern Armchair in Kvadrat Ecriture
Located in Nyack, NY
This chair's deep, ultra-plush cushions invite you to sink in, while the soft, organic curves and gently arched back add an elegant touch to any space. Crafted with the highest quali...
Fabric
$9,728Sale Price / set|24% Off
Roche Bobois 'Profile' Blue Velvet Sectional Sofa by Tapinassi & Manzoni, Signed
By Roche Bobois
Located in Los Angeles, CA
An elegant and highly sculptural "Profile" modular sectional sofa by Roche Bobois, designed by acclaimed Italian designers Roberto Tapinassi and Maurizio Manzoni. Comprised of a larg...
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Style Sculptural Sofa In Portofino Pink Velvet
Located in New York, NY
A sculptural interpretation of midcentury modern elegance, this curved sofa is upholstered in pink velvet that adds depth and style to any setting. The tailored silhouette features v...
Velvet, Walnut
The Laziness Armchair in Brazilian Solid Wood and Leather with rocking footstool
Located in São Paulo, SP
Laziness is a laid-back and spacious rocking armchair, crafted for sitting/lying down and unwinding. The low seat height from the ground draws inspiration from Japanese rocking chairs...
Alabaster
Layton Curve Sofa, Velvet & Natural Wood Sofa by Christian Siriano
Located in New York, NY
Made to order velvet and wood curved sofa designed by Christian Siriano. Fabric: Ivory Velvet Base: Natural Maple. Available in custom fabrics and finishes. Dimensions: Overall ...
Maple, Velvet
Anthracite Black Leather Coupe Sofa
By Kai Kristiansen, Bramin Mobler
Located in London, GB
A very bold and unusual anthracite black leather coupe sofa by Kai Kristiansen for Bramin Mobler, Denmark, circa 1970's. A solid statement design. Soft anthracite leather with feathe...
Leather
Contemporary Voluminous 2-seater Sofa with Rounded Contours By Carlos Soriano
Located in New York, NY
Contemporary minimalist modular 2-seater sofa with rounded contours. The sofa is upholstered in a deep navy blue velvet. It consists of three connected modules, giving it a symmetric...
Upholstery, Velvet, Wood
Mid-Century Modern Style Curved Sofa In Chocolate Velvet By Mondo Design Studio
Located in New York, NY
A sculptural interpretation of midcentury modern elegance, this curved sofa is upholstered in rich chocolate velvet that adds depth and warmth to any setting. The tailored silhouette...
Velvet, Walnut
$11,675 / item
Moss Modular Sofa - Dhogar col. 023 (or Fabric cat. A)
By Mohdern
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The Moss collection draws inspiration from the softness and organic shapes of moss, offering a relaxed, natural aesthetic. This sofa collection boasts a unique, plush design with sof...
Upholstery, Coating, Fabric, Velvet
Minimalist Curved Sofa With Soft Feminine Silhouette in High-Resistant Velvet
Located in New York, NY
This sofa embodies a refined dialogue between geometry and softness. Its gently rounded profile creates an uninterrupted, fluid contour that wraps gracefully around the seating area,...
Velvet, Foam, Hardwood
The Laziness Armchair in Brazilian Solid Wood with a rocking footstool
Located in São Paulo, SP
Laziness is a laid-back and spacious rocking armchair, crafted for sitting/lying down and unwinding. The low seat height from the ground draws inspiration from Japanese rocking chairs...
Velvet, Foam, Wood, Hardwood
$11,705 / item
Chesterfield Green Leather 3-Seater Sofa
Located in Milan, IT
The Chesterfield sofa, from Tribeca Collection, is an icon of the world of the leather lounge, a timeless classic in the world of upholstery, an ...
Leather
Cassina, Maralunga 2-Seater Sofa from the 1990s, designed by Vico Magistretti
Located in IT
The sofa is an icon of Italian design, designed by Vico Magistretti in the 1990s and manufactured by Cassina. The sofa is made of cognac-colored leather. A blend of design genius an...
Leather
Alcove Linear Sofa – Curved Backseat with Fringe Base In Chocolate Velvet
Located in New York, NY
A sculptural statement piece defined by its architectural silhouette and introspective form. The Alcove Sofa embraces a bold exterior — rectangular and linear — that gently reveals a...
Upholstery, Velvet, Wood, Trimming
Custom Sofa with Wooden Base and Velvet Upholstery, Modern Design
Located in New York, NY
This sofa is a stylish and versatile piece that blends contemporary design with a vintage touch. It features a wooden base and convex edges, providing both comfort and a sleek aesthe...
Stainless Steel
Barbara Barry for Baker Furniture Roll Arm Sofa
By Baker Furniture Company, Barbara Barry
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Barbara Barry for Baker Furniture Roll Arm Sofa This sofa measures: 87.5 wide x 36 deep x 33.75 inches high, with a seat height of 19 and arm height of 23 inches We take our photos...
Upholstery
Illusion Curved Corner Sofa in Soft Alpaca Velvet, Hand-Crafted
Located in New York, NY
The Illusion Sofa is defined by its sculptural curved silhouette and organically shaped back, thoughtfully designed to create the visual impression of effortlessly embracing a 90-deg...
Upholstery, Velvet, Wood
Contemporary Voluminous 3-seater Sofa with Rounded Contours By Carlos Soriano
Located in New York, NY
Contemporary minimalist modular three-seater sofa with rounded contours. The sofa is upholstered in a deep, plush navy blue velvet. It consists of three connected modules, giving it ...
Upholstery, Velvet, Wood
$7,059Sale Price / item|25% Off
Contemporary Channeled Fleure Luxus Sofa in Green Velvet and Oak or Walnut Legs
By Stuart Scott
Located in Trowbridge, Wiltshire
The Fleure Luxus sofa is our latest adaptation of the award winning Fleure 3 – seater sofa, upholstered in this premium cotton velvet. The Fleure range combines traditional style cue...
Velvet, Oak, Walnut
$22,250 / item
Contemporary Curved Velvet Sofa with Wooden Base
Located in New York, NY
Experience this curved sofa that offers both serene comfort and timeless elegance, Its low height and soft, cloud-like curves create an inviting and versatile seating experience. Thi...
Upholstery, Velvet, Wood
Art Deco Sofa by Munna Design Studio with Velvet Upholstery
Located in New York, NY
This sofa features a wonderfully elegant fan-shaped motif, with its accentuated curvy lines with decadent and lavish finish. The feminine curves are ravishingly enhanced by the diffe...
Velvet
Baker Furniture Yves Sofa
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Baker Furniture Yves Sofa This sofa measures: 96.5 wide x 33 deep x 29 inches high, with a seat height of 18 and arm height of 20.75 inches We take our photos in a controlled light...
Upholstery