Room by Room – the Mies van der Rohe MR Chair

This week, Room by Room with FormFire Glassworks takes a look at an iconic transitional piece, the Mies van der Rohe MR Chair.

Originally created in 1927 with a tubular steel frame and wicker caning seat, this simple chair fits nicely into both the minimalist modern home as well as into a warmer, more natural setting. Designed as part of the MR Collection, Mies’ chair is available with leather seating and padding, and also comes as a side chair, without arms. Personally, I am a fan of the wicker version, which keeps the clean lines of the shapely frame, while adding texture and warmth. The slight springiness of the steel frame makes this a comfortable piece, and its spare construction makes it a light addition to a dining room, home office, or as an extra chair in a living area.

This combination of simple line combined with tactile sensation led me to an eclectic selection of handmade accessories. I love the melding of authentic materials and simple forms. A concrete box houses an indoor thermometer, while bowls of a similar material hold succulents that bring in a contained piece of nature. Linen baskets hold oft-used items, and add substance with their leather handles. A set of simple porcelain vases counterbalance texture with a touch of smoothness, and a walnut base lamp with an Edison bulb adds the warmth of wood and a modern twist on an antique look.

Next week I will choose a new iconic piece and give you my picks for accessorizing your modern home.