Ballard Designs Swivel Glider (also known as upholstered swivel club chair or nursery glider)
Seating (Subcategory: Swivel Glider / Upholstered Accent Chair) · Contemporary / Transitional (21st Century) · Ballard Designs (attributed based on retail catalog styling, silhouette, and proportions)
Type
Seating (Subcategory: Swivel Glider / Upholstered Accent Chair)
Style Period
Contemporary / Transitional (21st Century)
Material
Hardwood frame construction, high-density foam padding, steel swivel-glider mechanism, and a high-performance fabric upholstery (such as brushed velvet, linen blend, or performance microsuede).
Age Estimate
Contemporary, likely manufactured within the last 0 to 10 years.
Dimensions
Estimated dimensions: Height 34-36 inches, Width 32-34 inches, Depth 35-37 inches. This aligns with standard comfortable lounge and nursery seating proportions, offering a generous seat depth.
Origin
Manufactured primarily in the United States or imported for the American home retail market.
Designer/Maker
Ballard Designs (attributed based on retail catalog styling, silhouette, and proportions)
Value Estimate
Retail value typically ranges from $800 to $1,400 depending on the specific fabric grade. Resale value on the secondary market (Facebook Marketplace, Chairish) generally ranges from $250 to $500, heavily dependent on condition, pet/smoke-free history, and current local demand.
Description
This sophisticated upholstered swivel glider combines the cozy comfort of a traditional club chair with smooth 360-degree rotation and a gentle gliding motion. Featuring clean, tailored lines, sloped arms, a supportive loose seat cushion, and a neatly finished skirt that hides the mechanical base, it bridges the gap between nursery functionality and chic living room aesthetics. Its neutral palette and plush upholstery invite relaxation while maintaining a polished designer look.
Key Features
Smooth concealed swivel-glider mechanism, tailored waterfall skirt, sloped track arms, supportive loose seat cushion, and included lumbar accent pillow.
Color & Finish
Monochromatic soft beige/blush neutral tone. The upholstery features a matte, tactile nap that diffuses light, creating subtle tonal variations across the tailored surfaces.
Construction Method
Engineered frame assembled with mortise-and-tenon joints and reinforced corner blocks, combined with a heavy-duty mechanical swivel-glider base. Manufactured commercially with artisan-tailored upholstery.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Internal frame utilizes reinforced corner blocking and heavy-duty dowels or mortise-and-tenon joints designed to withstand rotational and rocking stresses. Upholstery features precise pattern alignment and tight, clean seams.
Wood Grain & Species
Internal frame made of kiln-dried hardwoods such as mixed maple or engineered hardwood composites; wood grain is not visible externally.
Surface Treatment
Fabric upholstery is treated with a stain-resistant finish (typical of performance fabrics offered by high-end home retailers like Ballard Designs).
Upholstery Details
Fully upholstered in a neutral, plush fabric with clean tailored seams. Includes a loose, box-cushioned seat with welted piping, a matching lumbar throw pillow, an integrated tight backrest, and a finished tailored waterfall skirt concealing the mechanical base.
Hardware & Fittings
Internal heavy-duty steel swivel and gliding mechanism concealed beneath the skirt; no visible exterior hardware.
Origin & Provenance
Manufactured primarily in the United States or imported for the American home retail market.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in excellent, like-new condition with intact structural integrity, smooth gliding mechanics, uncompressed cushioning, and unblemished upholstery.
Interesting Facts
Swivel gliders were originally popularized as nursery staples because of the soothing, continuous motion they offer parents, but high-end iterations have increasingly migrated into stylish living rooms, home libraries, and studies as primary reading chairs.
Cultural Significance
Represents the modern interior design trend of blurring the lines between functional child-rearing furniture and high-end residential decor, ensuring longevity of use long after the nursery phase has passed.
Similar Pieces
Comparable to swivel glider chairs from high-end retailers like Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and Restoration Hardware. Distinguished primarily by arm thickness, skirt style, and cushion fill.
Care & Maintenance
Vacuum upholstery regularly with a soft brush attachment to remove dust. Spot clean stains immediately using a mild water-based detergent or specialized performance-fabric cleaner. Fluff and rotate the loose seat cushion periodically to ensure even wear.
Value Estimate
Retail value typically ranges from $800 to $1,400 depending on the specific fabric grade. Resale value on the secondary market (Facebook Marketplace, Chairish) generally ranges from $250 to $500, heavily dependent on condition, pet/smoke-free history, and current local demand.
Sustainability Notes
Durability and timeless neutral styling contribute to product longevity, reducing the frequency of replacement. Many modern manufacturers utilize kiln-dried wood sourced from managed forests, though specific eco-certifications depend on the exact fabric and frame batch.
Notes
Ballard swivel glider resale value