Mid-Century Modern Slat-Back Sofa / Daybed
Seating (Sofa) · Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1960s) · Likely manufactured by a company such as Lane, Kroehler, or Baumritter (American manufacturer in the Scandinavian style)
Type
Seating (Sofa)
Style Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1960s)
Material
Walnut or teak frame with striped textile upholstery and foam or spring-filled cushions
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965
Dimensions
Height: 30-32 inches; Width: 72-78 inches; Depth: 30 inches; standard three-seater proportions
Origin
United States or Denmark; representative of the Scandinavian influence on mid-century American domestic design
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by a company such as Lane, Kroehler, or Baumritter (American manufacturer in the Scandinavian style)
Value Estimate
$800 - $1,500 USD (Market value varies significantly based on designer confirmation such as Hans Wegner or Grete Jalk)
Description
An elegant low-profile mahogany-toned sofa characterized by its rhythmic vertical slat back and rhythmic striped upholstery. The design features slender tapered legs connected by a central stretcher, providing a lightweight visual footprint common to high-modernist interiors. The use of bolster pillows on the ends suggests it was designed for versatile use in a den or living room.
Key Features
Tapered legs, vertical slatted 'gate' back, bolster pillows, button-tufted back cushions, and a continuous bench-style seat cushion
Color & Finish
Medium-toned amber wood finish (satin lacquer) with multi-colored striped upholstery (likely shades of brown, beige, and cream)
Construction Method
Machine-manufactured with hand-finished assembly typical of Danish Modern mass production
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Doweled mortise and tenon joints with iconic tapered legs and a horizontal stretcher support
Wood Grain & Species
Straight-grained walnut or Teak veneer over solid wood substrate for the structural rails
Surface Treatment
Smooth wood surfaces with a clear satin finish; spindled or vertical slat backrest visible through cushions
Upholstery Details
Striped woven fabric (likely wool-blend) featuring boxed back cushions with single-button tufting and cylindrical bolster pillows
Hardware & Fittings
Hidden metal brackets for frame assembly; original upholstery clips potentially beneath the seat frame
Origin & Provenance
United States or Denmark; representative of the Scandinavian influence on mid-century American domestic design
Condition Notes
Good; frame appears structurally sound, though fabric shows age-related sagging and typical light fading of the striped pattern
Interesting Facts
The slat-back sofa was popularized as a 'Daybed' design because the cushions could easily be removed or rearranged to provide a sleeping surface for guests.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII shift toward minimalist, functional furniture that prioritized open floor plans and airy aesthetics over Victorian bulk
Similar Pieces
Distinguishable from the 'Z-Chair' or 'Plank Chair' styles by its fixed slat-back and integrated stretcher base
Care & Maintenance
Clean wood with high-quality oil or wax; vacuum upholstery with a soft brush attachment; avoid direct sunlight to prevent further fabric fading
Value Estimate
$800 - $1,500 USD (Market value varies significantly based on designer confirmation such as Hans Wegner or Grete Jalk)
Sustainability Notes
Constructed from solid hardwoods intended for longevity; vintage pieces like this represent an eco-friendly 'no-waste' furniture choice compared to modern composite disposables