Harry Bertoia

Harry Bertoia was an Italian-American designer whose wire-welded chairs for Knoll remain among the most recognisable sculptures in 20th-century furniture. The collection at Heal's carries the continuing Knoll production of Bertoia's Diamond chair, Side chair and Bench, each hand-welded by craftspeople following the original design specifications laid down in 1952.
  • Bertoia Diamond Chair Bertoia Diamond Chair Tonus 210

    Harry Bertoia (1915 to 1978) was an Italian-American sculptor, designer and sound artist, best known for the wire-welded chair collection he designed for Knoll in 1952. Alongside the chairs, his monumental public sculptures appear at corporate and civic sites across North America. The dual careers in furniture and sculpture shape the Bertoia chairs' distinctive sculptural character.

    The wire Bertoia chairs are more comfortable than their visual impression suggests, with the wire grid flexing subtly under weight in a way that supports the sitter across the full seat. Cushions are available from Knoll for longer-term comfort, particularly on the Diamond chair. Most owners use the chairs with the original style cushions rather than bare wire.

    Each Bertoia chair is hand-welded from steel wire by craftspeople at Knoll's production partners, using the same welding techniques originally developed for the 1952 launch. The process is unusually labour-intensive for a furniture chair, with hundreds of individual welds per seat. Machine-welded reproductions cannot match the precision of the hand process.

    Standard Bertoia chairs are finished for indoor use. Knoll also produces outdoor-rated versions in bright-polished stainless steel or powder-coated finishes, specifically engineered for year-round outdoor use. Indoor chrome-finished pieces will corrode outdoors within months, so outdoor suitability should always be confirmed before placing.

    • How To Spot A Fake Design Classic
      Buying Guides
      How To Spot A Fake Design Classic
      Know your Arne from your Eames? To help you spot the difference between a cheap knock-off and the real deal, we’ve put together this handy guide to some of our much-copied classics. Starting 28th January 2017, a change in copyright law ensures that it is illegal for UK retailers to sell fake replicas of designer furniture, lighting and homeware. A triumph for iconic design, this means that a piece cannot be copied for up to 70 years rather than the previous 25 year gap, protecting the designers legacy and authenticity of the original design. At Heal’s, we are proud to say that we have always stocked only genuine modern furniture designs from authorised brands and suppliers. Sadly, not all sellers have been as scrupulous as we are, and the UK is still awash with poor quality copies of iconic designs. So what are the things to look out for when searching for a design classic and how do you know if yours is the genuine article? What is an “original” design? People are often under the impression that to qualify as an “original,” a piece of furniture has to date back to an early production run. Yet this has no bearing on the design itself providing a legally authorised manufacturer has made it. For example, the estate of Charles and Ray Eames has granted reproduction of the mid-century DSW chair (pictured above) exclusively to Vitra in Europe and Herman Miller in America. This ensures that the Eames’s iconic chair is made to the same standards of design and manufacture. Original 1227 Desk Lamp Still widely regarded as the archetypal Anglepoise lamp, the Original 1227 stems from engineer George Carwardine’s design for a new type of spring that could be moved easily yet remain rigid when held in position. It is these springs that indicate the authenticity of the design with each lamp using three independent springs to provide the arching mechanism. Other giveaways include the lamp’s on/off switch, which is positioned at the top of the shade, and the heavy table base made of cast iron with a steel cover. The Eames Lounge Chair The iconic Eames Lounge Chair has been the victim of untold inferior copies. The simplest way to identify a genuine design is by checking the underside of the seat shell where you will find the Vitra or Herman Miller logo (the only authorised manufacturers of Eames products in the world) alongside Charles Eames’ signature. The base of the seat offers further clues. On a genuine Eames Lounge Chair the base has five legs in a star pattern (the ottoman has four), and is neither too flat to the floor nor too steeply angled. Fakes often have four-legged bases with a spring or rocking mechanism. Designed to be ergonomic and extremely comfortable, the real the Eames Lounge Chair is set at a constant angle and does not recline. The smooth, seamless look of this chair means there are no visible screws or bolts in the veneered shell and it is instead held together by rubber shock mounts. This technique is expensive and time-consuming, so manufacturers of copies tend to take short cuts, such as using visible screws. Arco Floor Lamp Designed by Achille Castiglioni in 1962, to this day the Arco floor lamp is still produced in Italy by Flos. With the exception of an upgrade to the electrical system and a limited black marble base version in 2002, the use of white Carrara marble and stainless steel has remained unchanged since its launch over 50 years ago. The most obvious form of Arco fakery lies in its base, with many manufacturers opting for a flat marble stand in order to scrimp on costs. Another useful way to identify a genuine Arco is to check the inside of the polished aluminium ring that surrounds the perforated diffuser, where, provided its genuine, you will find a label displaying the Flos logo. The arm of the Arco lamp can also be cast up to two metres from the base and should feature three settings that allow you to adjust the length of its projection. If ever in doubt as to a designs origin, it is always worth researching and contacting the manufacturer of the certified piece. Of course, the best way to ensure you never mistake a fake for the genuine article is to visit Heal’s in-store or online where you’ll find a host of classic and contemporary pieces certified by the designers themselves.
    • Iconic Designer Brands At Heal’s
      Brands
      Iconic Designer Brands At Heal’s
      Here at Heal’s, we pride ourselves on being #WhereDesignLives. Over the next six weeks we're going to be shining a spotlight on an array of innovative and iconic brands at Heal's across our Instagram and online. For today’s post, we’d like to introduce you to our key brand partners and give you a little insight into the brands. Iconic Brands at Heal's Vitra Bringing together the best in iconic, contemporary design, Vitra believe that their thoughts and feelings are shaped by their surroundings. That is why they strive daily to improve interiors through the power of good design. Flos For fifty years Flos have been crafting objects of light and shedding brightness on generations of dreams. Their collection offers a range of modern lamps and chandeliers from some of the leading cutting-edge designers, and they continue to pioneer new styles. De La Espada De La Espada prides itself in putting the designer first, really appreciating and respecting the design process and valuing the modern artisan. Their furniture is where the creativity of some of the world’s leading designers meets the highest level of European craftsmanship. Porada Italian design house Porada use only the finest quality materials to produce furniture pieces that are works of art in their own right, such as the Infinity Table, Giolo mirror or their contemporary Walnut Chair. Knoll Knoll furniture is an institution of American design crafting pieces that are instantly recognisable yet always evolving. Fritz Hansen Standing on the shoulders of both iconic and contemporary designers, Fritz Hansen creates furniture, accessories and lighting designed to those who appreciate timeless designs and a product out of the ordinary. Whether you're looking for a Fritz Hansen chair or a modern Scandinavian dining table, you'll find it at Heal's. British Brands at Heal’s ercol Iconic British furniture brand ercol is known for its blend of quality craftsmanship and stylish design. Since 1920, this family business has produced luxuriously hand-crafted chairs and tables. ercol furniture is renowned across the globe thanks to its long-lasting quality. Case Working with world-renowned designers, Case is a vanguard of creativity and creates luxury wood furniture that is modern, with integrity and character. Innovative brands at Heal’s Tom Dixon Tom Dixon is one of Britain’s most acclaimed industrial designers, bringing wit, imagination and charm to everyday objects. Relentlessly innovative, incomparably creative and a true pioneer of design, where Tom Dixon innovates, others follow. Gazzda Bosnian design house Gazzda embraces its homeland’s fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, and the longstanding tradition of craftsmanship that accompanies them. The brand was created for a simple purpose; to make the world a bit more handsome and cosier than they found it, while creating furniture that will make you smile. ferm LIVING Founded in 2005 by designer Trine Andersen, ferm LIVING’s designs enhance the small and candid moments of everyday life. Based on a passion for authentic design and clear functionality, the Copenhagen-based design house is rooted in the Scandinavian design tradition and are constantly challenging themselves to shape the future. Amura Amura is a young brand rich in culture and passion, and eager to bring into your home the best of Italian craftmanship. Muuto With their name coming from the Finnish for 'new perspectives', Muuto handpicks leading contemporary designers who are strong interpreters of their philosophy. By expanding on their heritage with forward-looking materials, techniques and bold creative thinking, their ambition is to deliver new perspectives on Scandinavian design. Sustainable brands at Heal’s Kartell Continuing to break the mould in furniture and lighting, each Kartell piece is made in collaboration with prestigious international designers such as Philippe Starck and Ferruccio Laviani. Ongoing research and innovation in industrial processes have enabled the Bio Componibili cabinet to be produced with a biopolymer made from renewable raw materials, derived from non-GMO agricultural waste. Linie Design Committed to sustainable design, Linie Design rugs are produced using slow craftsmanship, without machinery, and transcend trends and the transience of time and so are passed on as a treasured heirlooms. SCP Furniture Founded in 1985, SCP is firmly established as one of the UK’s most innovative and internationally respected manufacturers and suppliers of contemporary furniture. True to its founding idea, SCP makes design products that are beautiful, functional, and made to last. Mater Named after the Latin word for mother, Copenhagen-based design studio Mater serves as a daily reminder of our connection with mother earth. Mater limits its impact on the planet by using techniques that support local crafting traditions and the environment. Riva 1920 Based on the scenic coast of Lombardy, Italy, Riva 1920 creates contemporary crafted furniture using only the finest solid wood timbers. Each element is subjected to detailed qualitative and functional compliance checks, guaranteeing an authentic and completely natural product. Gandia Blasco Gandia Blasco, based in Valencia, produces its rugs in India by artisan rug makers. Sustainability has always been a priority for GAN. From the beginning, it has been the principle that has permeated all the processes of the brand: from the manufacture of its products and the renewal of artisan techniques to the preference for natural materials. Artisan brands at Heal’s Artisan Bosnian manufacturer Artisan is steeped in heritage. Having emerged from the traditional woodworking shop Ćostović, over 50 years of experience is poured into each creation. A genuine passion and appreciation of wood is fused into the entire manufacturing process.
    • The Trending Iconic Furniture Pieces To Invest In
      Latest Trends
      The Trending Iconic Furniture Pieces To Invest In
      The Iconic Investments Index Interior design trends may come and go, but some timeless pieces are more than a phase. Your home should be a treasure trove of pieces that bring in joy and make your space yours - but what if some of your furniture was considered actual treasure? From vintage classics to up and coming designs, we’ve tracked the data behind the trends to find which furniture to invest in now that will pay off later. As well as affordable classics, we have also looked into the glamorous world of big-ticket antiques and the latest furniture phases that will garner a return on your purchase. Vintage or well-made furniture is not only a fashion statement but a statement for sustainability. We have looked at the carbon footprint of ‘fast’ furniture and how preloved items can help the planet. Did you know that the carbon emissions from the manufacture of the average sofa are the equivalent of 11,478 smartphones being fully charged? Whether you’re looking for an item to cherish forever, an investment piece to bring you profit or just want to take in some beautifully designed furniture then read on. The Most Iconic Furniture Pieces to Invest In If you’re looking for a stylish investment piece that will bring you joy and maybe a bit of cash when the time comes to sell, we have found the furniture for you. By analysing sales prices and popularity over the last five years, these are the pieces that will be not only a win aesthetically but might also reward you for your investment. The Wishbone Chair from Hans Wegner tops that chart. Originally launched in 1949, this design has truly stood the test of time. With an average resale value of £780.50 and a 200% increase in popularity this beautiful chair is a stylish addition to any home, but sit on this purchase and find bigger profits when the time comes. With ten pieces on the list, the 1960s have the most mentions. From the instantly recognisable Stacking Chair from Verner Panton to the timeless Arco Lamp by Flos, mid-century styles reign supreme. Many of the items on the list wouldn’t look out of place in a modern furniture catalogue, and the appeal of enduring design can be epitomised by these pieces. Endurability is key when it comes to selecting investment pieces. This design quality ensures that furniture catches a buyer’s eye but also grows on you in time. The World's Most Expensive Antiques After taking a look at some more modest investments, we dug through the archives to find the showstopper sales which brought in the biggest amounts. These aren't your average furniture pieces while some aren’t for the faint of heart. Rich in design history, many of these items are accompanied by a story. At first glance, Charles Ray’s ‘Table’ may seem simple but this is a piece of modern art, representing the conundrum of illusion versus reality. The vessels are bottomless and affixed to the tabletop allowing the viewer to see through ordinarily solid items. Critics celebrated the piece when it was released in 1959. It was subsequently sold for over £3 million in 2011. Also featured on our list is the provocative table from Allen Jones, described as an ‘icon of Pop’ and, by way of contrast, a more simple design of a 17th-century folding chair which sold for over £67,000. This shows how some items gain value by becoming infamous, whereas others earn their price tag from skilled craftsmanship that lasts for centuries. The Future Furniture Classics Now we have seen the classics of years gone by, it’s time to look to the future. By tracking global Google search trends and Instagram data, we have calculated the popularity increase and predicted the items from more recent times that are growing in interest. Many of the pieces feature effortless chic design and come in earthy, neutral tones which complement any passing trends. The list features some more quirky designs: The QEEBOO Rabbit Chair brings a touch of modern and classy kitsch to any room, while the Anissa Kermiche Love Handles vase offers a modern callback to nude renaissance sculptures of the past. The Carbon Cost of ‘Fast’ Furniture We’ve all heard the old adage of ‘buy cheap, buy twice’ but budget furniture might not only cost you financially, but it might also cost the environment. While ‘fast fashion’ has come under the spotlight recently, ‘fast’ furniture also has a carbon cost associated with its manufacture. As we marvel at the beautiful designs of the last hundred years carbon emissions might not be the first thing you consider. Investing in vintage pieces, well-made furniture or second-hand effects is a great way to be sustainable. A sofa is normally a big purchase, but it can also come with a big carbon cost, largely down to the foam and stuffing inside it. The longer you use it the more you ‘offset’ its carbon footprint. So it pays to buy items that are better made and have a more timeless design. Similarly, choosing wisely when selecting big-ticket items for your home is essential. By picking something well made that you will love and cherish ensures it’s not heading to the landfill site within a couple of years. Not only is investing in vintage or well-made furniture an investment in your future fortunes, but it is an investment in the future of the planet too. Methodology: To work out the top 27 iconic investments, we used a seed list of furniture originally sold from 1800 to 1990. To this seed list, we analysed sale prices from the last five years, along with the number of Google searches, the most popular country for sales and Google Trend data from 2015 - 2020. Most expensive antiques came from Christie’s most valuable listed sales. While modern classics were judged on: Current RRP Instagram popularity data Google search volume Google Trend data over the past 12 months Using carbon emissions data from the FIRA Carbon Footprint of Furniture report, we assessed the CO2KG of the most popular furniture purchases. By using this research, we were able to calculate the number of owners a piece would need to reduce its carbon footprint.