Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Swivel Bar Stool
Seating (Bar Stool/Counter Stool) · Mid-Century Modern (Late 1960s to mid-1970s). Stylistic indicators include the organic, contoured upholstered shell combined with a geometric, rectilinear wooden frame profile and a functional swivel mechanism. · Likely manufactured by Chromcraft, Douglas, or DUX. While it lacks a visible mark in the photo, the 'sculpted armrest' frame is a hallmark of late 60s/70s American and Scandinavian-export furniture manufacturers.
Type
Seating (Bar Stool/Counter Stool)
Style Period
Mid-Century Modern (Late 1960s to mid-1970s). Stylistic indicators include the organic, contoured upholstered shell combined with a geometric, rectilinear wooden frame profile and a functional swivel mechanism.
Material
Primary wood appears to be Teak or Walnut (solid and veneer) for the frame; secondary materials include steel for the swivel mechanism and footrest cladding, and a synthetic blend or wool tweed for the upholstery.
Age Estimate
Circa 1968-1976.
Dimensions
Height: 40-44 inches; Seat Height: 28-30 inches; Width: 22-24 inches; Depth: 20-22 inches. This is a standard bar-height seating dimension.
Origin
Likely American-made in the Scandinavian Modern style, or a Japanese/Danish export for the US market.
Designer/Maker
Likely manufactured by Chromcraft, Douglas, or DUX. While it lacks a visible mark in the photo, the 'sculpted armrest' frame is a hallmark of late 60s/70s American and Scandinavian-export furniture manufacturers.
Value Estimate
Insurance/Retail value: $150 - $250 in current condition. If professionally reupholstered, a set could fetch $400 - $600 each in a boutique vintage market.
Description
An elegant example of transitional Mid-Century design, this bar stool marries the comfort of an executive lounge chair with the height of dining stool. The profile is defined by a striking geometric square-sided frame that flows seamlessly into integrated armrests. The upholstered shell provides an organic contrast to the rigid frame, offering ergonomic support. Its combination of warm wood tones and neutral textured fabric makes it a versatile piece for a home bar or kitchen island.
Key Features
Sculpted integrated wooden arms, cantilever-style frame, swivel seat mechanism, and metal-topped footrest stretcher.
Color & Finish
Medium wood stain in a warm teak or honey-oat finish. The upholstery is a neutral oatmeal or beige textured tweed. The wood shows a low-luster satin lacquer or oil-rubbed finish.
Construction Method
Factory-built mass production with hand-finished elements. The frame uses laminated wood for the curved armrest transitions and a cantilever-influenced leg design, typical of high-end commercial production from this era.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Mortise and tenon joinery for the main frame structure. The integration of the seat shell to the frame uses machine-fit mechanical fasteners typical of Danish-inspired commercial production.
Wood Grain & Species
Straight-grain Teak or Walnut. The frame lacks heavy figuring, focusing instead on consistent color and the architectural lines of the cut.
Surface Treatment
Sanding and clear lacquer finish. The wood shows some natural distressing from age, including light scuffs on the lower legs and some finish degradation on the armrest area due to hand oils.
Upholstery Details
Coarse-weave textured fabric (bouclé or tweed) in oatmeal color. Padded with high-density polyurethane foam. Features a continuous contoured seat-and-back shell with a slight 'bucket' profile and visible wear/fraying on the side edges.
Hardware & Fittings
Internal ball-bearing swivel plate. Metal footrest stretcher with a chrome or brass-plated protective plate. Discreet wood plugs cover the assembly screws on the outer frame.
Origin & Provenance
Likely American-made in the Scandinavian Modern style, or a Japanese/Danish export for the US market.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The upholstery shows significant snagging and pilling on the side of the backrest. The frame appears structurally sound, though the wood finish shows light surface wear and potential sun-fading.
Interesting Facts
Stools like these were popularized during the 'home bar' boom of the late 1960s, designed to bridge the gap between office comfort and social entertainment.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of Scandinavian Modern design in the late 20th century, where high-style elements were adapted for mass-market residential use.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Plycraft or Selig designs, but distinguished by the solid wood frame as opposed to a plywood pedestal base.
Care & Maintenance
Upholstery requires professional cleaning or reupholstery due to snagging. Wood frame should be cleaned with a damp cloth and treated with a high-quality furniture oil or wax to restore the luster.
Value Estimate
Insurance/Retail value: $150 - $250 in current condition. If professionally reupholstered, a set could fetch $400 - $600 each in a boutique vintage market.
Sustainability Notes
The use of solid wood and repairable mechanical parts offers high longevity. Reupholstering this piece is an excellent eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new furniture.