Artek Armchair 42
The Artek Armchair 42, designed by Alvar Aalto in 1932, is a perfect example of timeless design that continues to feel fresh and modern nearly a century later. Often referred to as the “Small Paimio,” this chair showcases Aalto’s signature use of bent birch plywood, a technique he pioneered to create flowing, organic forms that were both beautiful and functional. The sculptural frame is made from laminated birch, while the seat and back are formed from a single, form-pressed piece of lacquered plywood, available in elegant black or white finishes.
Key Features:
- Choice of finishes
Wellworking Says...
"The Artek Armchair 42 with its gentle curves and iconic design bring comfort and character to any room, just as Alvar Aalto intended."
Artek Armchair 42 FAQs
What is the Artek Armchair 42?
Designed by Alvar Aalto in 1932, Armchair 42—also known as “Small Paimio”—is a sculptural, cantilevered lounge chair crafted from bent birch wood and form-pressed plywood. It was originally created for the Paimio Sanatorium in Finland as part of Aalto’s humanist approach to design.
What materials is it made from?
• Frame: Form-bent solid birch lamella
• Seat and backrest: Single piece of form-pressed birch plywood, lacquered in black or white
What are the dimensions?
• Width: 60 cm
• Depth: 75 cm
• Height: 72 cm
• Seat height: 36 cm
• Armrest height: 54 cm
Is the chair comfortable?
Yes. The cantilevered design allows for a slight flex, and the flowing curves of the seat and backrest provide ergonomic support, offering a comfortable seating experience.
What finish options are available?
The seat is available in either black or white lacquer, paired with a clear-lacquered birch frame.
Is assembly required?
No. The chair is delivered fully assembled.
Where is it manufactured?
Armchair 42 is made in Finland by Artek, adhering to high standards of craftsmanship.
Is it suitable for commercial use?
Yes. Its durable construction and timeless design make it suitable for both residential and commercial environments.
WARRANTY CLAIMS
All warranties are automatically applied by Wellworking and there is no need to register your product with the manufacturer.
Please keep your proof of purchase safe (it's easier for us to locate your order with the invoice or web order number) and, in the unlikely event a fault occurs, contact us by emailing service@wellworking.co.uk and we will arrange a service visit or replacement.
As a certified B Corp we are committed to putting sustainability at the core of all the products and services we offer.
Our products are designed with quality and longevity in mind and this is reflected in their long warranties.
We are working with our suppliers to reduce packaging and limit the use of non-recyclable packing materials. We take away all the packaging when we deliver products and recycle as much as we can within our offices to reduce the waste that goes to landfill.
