Upholstered Swivel Armchair, also known as Club Swivel Chair or Barrel Swivel Chair
Seating (Armchair / Swivel Chair) · Contemporary / Transitional (Late 20th to Early 21st Century) · Bernhardt Furniture Company
Type
Seating (Armchair / Swivel Chair)
Style Period
Contemporary / Transitional (Late 20th to Early 21st Century)
Material
Hardwood frame construction, high-density foam padding, metal swivel mechanism, and woven patterned fabric upholstery
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured within the last 15 to 25 years (circa 2000-2015)
Dimensions
Estimated height 34 inches, width 32 inches, depth 34 inches; consistent with standard club and swivel chair dimensions designed for residential living spaces
Origin
United States (manufactured by Bernhardt, a historic American furniture maker based in North Carolina)
Designer/Maker
Bernhardt Furniture Company
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market value range of $300 to $700 depending on overall condition and local demand; original retail value significantly higher
Description
An inviting and sophisticated upholstered swivel armchair by Bernhardt, combining classic traditional pattern design with modern functionality. Featuring gently flared arms, a supportive tight back, and a plush loose seat cushion, the chair is wrapped in a timeless damask-inspired botanical scroll fabric in neutral tones. Its skirted base neatly conceals a smooth 360-degree swivel mechanism, making it an ideal statement piece for a living room, bedroom, or reading nook.
Key Features
Smooth concealed swivel base, gently flared armrests, tailored skirt, and classic damask pattern fabric upholstery
Color & Finish
Neutral off-white or cream background featuring a distressed taupe or muted gold damask-style botanical scroll pattern
Construction Method
Factory-built using kiln-dried hardwood framing, heavy-duty steel swivel mechanism, sinuous wire spring support, and machine-stitched upholstery tailored over foam padding
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Corner-blocked and doweled hardwood frame joints secured with heavy-duty fasteners, reflecting high-grade modern residential manufacturing standards
Wood Grain & Species
Internal frame made of hidden mixed hardwoods; exterior surfaces are fully upholstered
Surface Treatment
Fully upholstered exterior with patterned fabric; no exposed wood surfaces
Upholstery Details
Woven jacquard or printed upholstery fabric with a traditional damask pattern, thick loose reversible seat cushion, tailored tight back, flared arms, and a skirted base concealing the swivel mechanism
Hardware & Fittings
Concealed heavy-duty internal steel swivel plate and ball-bearing mechanism
Origin & Provenance
United States (manufactured by Bernhardt, a historic American furniture maker based in North Carolina)
Condition Notes
Appears to be in very good to excellent pre-owned condition with clean fabric, intact seams, and a fully functional swivel mechanism showing minimal signs of wear
Interesting Facts
Bernhardt Furniture, founded in 1889 by John M. Bernhardt in Lenoir, North Carolina, remains one of America's oldest family-owned furniture companies, known for blending classic craftsmanship with contemporary style trends
Cultural Significance
Swivel club chairs gained immense popularity in mid-century modern interior design for encouraging dynamic conversation layouts in open-plan living spaces, a concept that remains a staple in contemporary home decor
Similar Pieces
Traditional stationary club chairs or wingback chairs; distinguished primarily by the inclusion of the hidden swivel base and relaxed, flowing silhouette
Care & Maintenance
Professional upholstery cleaning recommended for the fabric; vacuum regularly with a soft brush attachment to remove dust; rotate the loose seat cushion periodically to ensure even wear
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market value range of $300 to $700 depending on overall condition and local demand; original retail value significantly higher
Sustainability Notes
Constructed with durable materials designed for long-term use, supporting sustainability through longevity and reduced replacement frequency; frame often sourced from sustainably managed forests if compliant with modern industry standards
Notes
Bernhardt