Model 71 Dining Chair in Alpaca and Mohair Bouclé

A confident presence, and unmistakably Saarinen, this Model 71 dining chair embodies over seventy years of refined design thinking, where comfort, elegance, and innovation converge in a single, fluid gesture.

Designed in 1950 by Eero Saarinen for Knoll International, the chair reflects his pursuit of clarity, a desire to eliminate visual clutter, and to create forms that feel intuitive and complete. Seat, back, and armrests merge into one continuous, sculptural line, resulting in a silhouette that appears carved rather than assembled, soft in expression, yet precise in execution.

This particular item stands out through its rich, mohair velvet upholstery, newly executed in a luxurious Pierre Frey Opio Aplaca/Mohair bouclé. The beautiful brick red bloucé enhances the chair’s organic form, adding depth, warmth, and a subtle sense of movement. Beneath, the original black steel base provides a crisp, architectural counterpoint, grounding the design with lightness and strength.

Generous in its proportions and inviting in its comfort, the integrated armrests and renewed foam interior ensure a relaxed seating experience, perfectly suited for long dinners, conversations, and everyday use.

A timeless design, reimagined with a bold yet refined textile, balancing mid-century heritage with contemporary character.

This specific chair was made under license by De Coene for Knoll in Kortrijk, Belgium in the 1960s.

Reference: Knoll Associates, Inc. Price List May 1, 1964, p. 8