This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.
Even though the first plastics were made in the mid-1800s, most household items were not made of plastic until the 1920s and 1930s. Plastic was used instead of rubber to make radio cases and handles for kitchen tools. By 1927, people had made plastics like vinyl and nylon. During World War II, research led to even more types of plastic, and by the 1950s, designers were experimenting with them to make light, colourful, and cheap furniture.
Plastic – Material
Furniture styles changed because of new materials. “Organic” designs were made in the 1940s. The DAR chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1948 and made by Zenith Plastics for Herman Miller Furniture Company, was probably one of the first popular plastic chairs made in large quantities. The Womb chair (1947) and the single-pedestal Tulip armchair (1955), made by Knoll and designed by Eero Saarinen, were made of fibreglass-reinforced plastic. In the 1950s, designers wanted affordable design for many people. Moulded plastics made this possible. Without using fabric upholstery, great colours were brought in. No longer did a chair have to have three or four legs and a seat; instead, it could just be a curved piece of solid plastic. Joe Colombo designed the Universale stacking chair in 1965, and Kartell made it. It was the first chair made in one piece by injection moulding.
In 1968, Verner Panton made the first cantilevered chair from a single piece of plastic. It was a stacking chair. Plastic was hard to work with for many other designers and manufacturers well into the 1960s. The seats would crack, the legs would break, and the heat would make the plastic soft.
Plastic – Early Years
In the 1900s, many kinds of plastic were used to make furniture, such as Bakelite (around 1909), Formica (created in 1913 as a replacement “for mica” in electrical insulation and used for furniture beginning in the 1920s), Lucite (1930s), acrylics (1930s), fibreglass (1930s), and ABS (1930s) (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, 1950s). Inflatable furniture was first made by the Italian company De Pas, D’Urbino, and Lomazzi in 1967. It was made of soft plastics like vinyl and polyurethane foam. Gaetano Pesce made a lot of mass-produced but one-of-a-kind pieces by dripping different coloured resins into moulds or over other shapes to make random patterns of colour and shape.
Plastic furniture – Now
People still like plastic furniture. There are copies of older designs and new styles of chairs and tables that cost about the same. Very cheap garden furniture is made of plastic and is shaped to look like wicker, iron, or stone. Prices are higher for stylish modern designs like the injection-moulded, one-piece clear and coloured plastic Louis Ghost chairs by Philippe Starck and the Briton garden bench by Paolo Rizzatto.
Sources
Kovel, R. M., & Kovel, T. H. (2007, October 1). Kovels’ American Collectibles 1900-2000. https://doi.org/10.1604/9780609808917
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Why do we love plastic furniture?
Plastic furniture has become popular in modern design due to its unique blend of practicality, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Let’s explore the key reasons behind its widespread appreciation.
Durability and Low Maintenance
Plastic furniture is renowned for its resilience. Unlike wood, which can warp or rot, or metal, which may rust, high-quality plastics withstand various environmental conditions without significant degradation. This durability translates to minimal maintenance, as plastic pieces typically require occasional cleaning with soapy water to retain their appearance. HCCF
Affordability
The cost-effectiveness of plastic furniture makes it accessible to a broad audience. Mass production and the availability of raw materials contribute to lower prices than materials like wood or metal. This affordability allows individuals to furnish spaces stylishly without exceeding their budget. HCCF
Design Versatility
Advancements in plastic manufacturing have led to a vast array of designs, colours, and finishes. Plastic can be moulded into intricate shapes and patterns, allowing designers to create innovative and ergonomic pieces. This versatility enables plastic furniture to complement interior and exterior aesthetics, from minimalist to eclectic styles. Italica
Sustainability
Many plastic furniture items are now produced using recycled materials, aligning with sustainable design practices. Companies like The Good Plastic Company manufacture furniture from 100% recycled and recyclable plastic panels, contributing to environmental conservation by reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. Wikipedia
Lightweight and Portable
The lightweight nature of plastic furniture enhances its functionality. Easily movable, these pieces are ideal for dynamic spaces where flexibility is essential, such as outdoor patios or multipurpose rooms. This portability does not compromise durability, making plastic furniture practical and enduring. Storables
Safety and Comfort
Plastic furniture often features smooth edges and surfaces, reducing the risk of injury—an essential consideration in homes with children or elderly individuals. Additionally, ergonomic designs can be easily achieved with plastic, providing comfort alongside safety. Leisure Touch Rattan
Weather Resistance
Plastic furniture is inherently resistant to moisture and UV rays, making it an excellent choice for outdoor settings. Unlike wood, which may require regular treatments, or metal, which can corrode, plastic maintains its integrity and appearance despite exposure to the elements. Neotimber
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