This Chair Style is All Over Social Media - Here’s How to Get One

Sep 28th 2023

You’ve likely glimpsed the Cesca chair while scrolling through your favorite design feeds or nestled stylishly in a trendy nook of a friend’s abode. With its sleek design and historical significance, this iconic chair has made a comeback, capturing the attention of interior designers, influencers, and homeowners.

It’s turning heads and starting conversations in living rooms and design spaces everywhere. But what’s the story behind this in-vogue Cesca Chair, and more importantly, how can you snag one for yourself?

Unravel the magic behind this highly desirable chair, that’s a fusion of art, comfort, and trend. If you’re eyeing this iconic piece for your home, we have some handy tips and insights to help you bring it into your space.

A History of the Cesca Chair

The Cesca chair – while the name might not immediately ring a bell, its iconic design is unmistakably etched in the annals of design history. Born from the genius mind of Marcel Breuer in 1928, this chair was not just a piece of furniture but a revolution in design thinking.

Inspired by a bicycle frame, Breuer introduced the world to the cantilevered form using tubular steel, a material previously unexplored in furniture design.

Named affectionately after his daughter Francesca, the Cesca chair seamlessly marries the industrial feel of steel with the warmth and organic nature of the cane rattan for its seat and backing.

This harmonious blend of materials was groundbreaking, setting the stage for many of the modern designs that followed, including Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Chair and Le Corbusier’s LC series.

Its significance wasn’t just recognized by homeowners and design aficionados. The art world took notice, too. An original Cesca chair now holds a place of honor in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, demonstrating its enduring design legacy.

Over the years, even though many tried to copy it, the Cesca Chair’s unique design stood out as a symbol of innovation and style. Despite changing design trends, it remains popular and in demand.

The Modern Appeal

Why has the Cesca chair suddenly become such a hit again? Well, there’s a strong wave in interior design that’s blending vintage charm with modern aesthetics. Pieces with a rich design history, like the Cesca chair, are in demand because they add a layer of elegance, a dash of history, and a genuine feel to contemporary spaces.

Additionally, the Cesca chair’s subtle colors and clean design make it a perfect fit for a range of interiors, whether you’re going for a boho-chic, Scandinavian, or industrial style. And its diverse styles - from the classic look to the armchair or barstool versions - only add to its adaptability.

Why Social Media Loves the Cesca Chair

Why is everyone suddenly talking about the Cesca chair on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok?

Camera-ready looks: The Cesca chair, with its clean, transparent design, is a dream to photograph. Whether set against the backdrop of an edgy loft or a snug reading nook, it adds an instant uplift to visuals, making them all the more shareable.
Celeb seal of approval: It’s hard to scroll without seeing a celebrity or influencer lounging on a Cesca chair. When these trendsetters showcase a piece, it’s only natural that their massive following wants a similar vibe in their spaces.
The retro wave: There’s an aesthetic online where everyone’s loving throwbacks. The Cesca chair, blending its historic roots with modern sensibilities, hits this nostalgic sweet spot. It speaks to various age groups, bridging a generational design gap.

How to Get a Cesca Chair

Whether you like the traditional design, armchair version, or barstool style, exploring the choices for a Cesca-inspired chair can be overwhelming. At Seats and Stools, we offer various Cesca chair models, including ones you can customize to complement your room.

OG Cesca Cane Chair

The original Cesca Chair is a harmonious blend of streamlined, tubular steel and the tactile warmth of woven cane rattan. Its cantilevered design, a marvel of engineering, gives the illusion of light and space while offering unparalleled comfort and spinal support.

The chair’s polished steel frame contrasts beautifully with the textured rattan seat and back, offering a versatile aesthetic suitable for various interiors, from Nordic minimalist to sophisticated mid-century modern.

Perfect as a dining chair at an upscale eatery or a statement piece in a home office, its neutral palette pairs well with plush cushions, sheepskin throws, or even bold-patterned textiles.

Cesca Upholstered Armchair

The Cesca Upholstered Armchair takes the classic appeal of the original and elevates it with added comfort and sophistication. Retaining the tubular steel frame, this version introduces plush upholstery, making it a comfortable seating choice.

The cantilevered design offers a signature uncluttered appearance, while the padded seat and back provide cozy support. The cantilever armrests, seamlessly integrated, enhance the chair’s ergonomic profile.

Placed in a serene reading corner, accompanied by the renowned Bauhaus Wagenfeld lamp, or showcased in a living room, its adaptable design suits both modern and classic spaces.

Colorful Cesca Chair

The Cesca Chair has frame finishes in gleaming chrome and lustrous brass. This creates a foundation that complements the numerous upholstery choices available at Seats and Stools so you can add a burst of color to your space.

There’s a color for every taste, whether you like bright colors like yellow, orange, or sapphire, or softer shades like almond, oatmeal, or sea foam. Mixing these chairs in a dining or living area can make a powerful design impact. Use contrasting shades for modern dining places or a range of matching colors for a cozy eating spot.

Gamma Breuer Bar Stool

Cesca Bar Stool

If you’re sprucing up your kitchen island, jazzing up a home bar, or giving your café a fresh look, the Cesca Bar Stool is the perfect choice. Its unique cantilevered structure visually declutters your space, while the curved cane seat and back offer a cozy seat, perfect for lingering over a drink or meal. It’s versatile enough for contemporary spaces yet has a timeless charm that classic decor enthusiasts will love.

Choose from four wood finishes: natural, honey oak, walnut, or black to match the chrome frame. The chair has protective glides to safeguard tile or hardwood floors from scratches. With a 28” seat height and a footrest, it ensures comfortable seating.

Breuer Cane Cesca Arm Chair

High Contrast Look Cesca Armchair

Want to add some drama to your room? The Cesca Armchair, available in various frame colors, easily becomes the highlight wherever it’s placed. Its gleaming chrome frame, combined with a rich black wood seat and back, contrasts the subtle cane, blending modern flair with classic style.

The added black armrests aren’t just for show; they up the comfort game, making it a calming spot for reading or long chats. So whether designing an industrial loft or sprucing up your home office, the Cesca Armchair isn’t just a chair—it’s a statement.

Build Your Own Breuer Chair

Industrial Cesca Chair

The Industrial Style Cesca Chair blends modern flair with its chrome frame and tan vinyl seating. While it retains the iconic Cesca design, its materials give it a fresh, urban feel. The shiny chrome frame paired with the tan vinyl results in a chair that’s not only chic but also low-maintenance.

This Cesca Chair design draws inspiration from industrial aesthetics, yet its elegance allows it to fit seamlessly into more sophisticated spaces.

Styling Your Cesca Chair

Dressing up your Cesca chair is about blending its timeless design with your unique style. Here are some easy ways to make your Cesca chair shine:

Mix and match: The Cesca chair seamlessly fits into different designs, from old-school charm to minimalist modernity. Whether paired with a retro Tulip table, a throwback cabinet, or a rugged bench, it just works. So mix and match and see what setup works best with your space.
Accessorize: Think of your Cesca chair as a canvas. A soft cushion in a bold pattern or a tactile sheepskin throw can instantly enhance its look. These touches don’t just look good; they also amp up the comfort factor.
Grouping: Arranging several Cesca Chairs around a dining table ties the room together, giving it a chic and welcoming vibe.
Statement Corner: Every house has that one understated spot just waiting for a touch of charm. Place your Cesca chair in that corner, throw in a stylish floor lamp and a side table stacked with your go-to books, and there you have it - a snug reading corner.
Rugs: The clean design of the Cesca chair stands out when placed on a textured or patterned rug. Be it a shag rug or one with bold geometric designs, the mix can create a striking visual contrast.
Wall art: Place vibrant modern artwork or timeless black and white photos above your chair. Together, they can become a centerpiece that grabs attention and gets people talking.
Natural elements: The Cesca chair, with its cane rattan and wooden elements, blends perfectly with natural additions. Whether it’s a towering indoor plant, a rustic coffee table, or a jute rug, these earthy elements enhance the chair’s inherent design.
Layering: Consider teaming up your Cesca chair with a coordinating ottoman or contrasting footstool if space allows. This combo creates a layered appearance, adding dimension and providing an inviting spot to unwind.

Caring for Your Cesca Chair

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your Cesca chair looking its best and lasting longer. Here are some easy steps to help maintain its pristine condition:

Regular cleaning: Wipe the chrome frame with a soft, damp cloth to remove fingerprints and smudges. You can also use a chrome cleaner like Bar Keeper’s Friend or Brasso to polish the frame to a high shine.
Use a mild soap solution for the cane or vinyl seat and back, then rinse with a clean, damp cloth and dry thoroughly. If possible, allow the chair to air dry outdoors. This can help prevent mold growth in the cane and underlying foam cushioning.
Avoid abrasives: Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on any part of the chair, as they can scratch or damage the surfaces. Scratches can dull the luster on the metal frame, while scratches on the vinyl upholstery allow bacterial growth.
Protect from direct sunlight: Prolonged UV exposure can fade the fabric or vinyl material, especially if it’s brightly colored. Position the chair away from direct sunlight or use curtains or blinds on large windows.
Check fastenings: Screws and bolts can become loose over time, especially in high-traffic commercial settings like restaurants or office buildings. Periodically check and tighten any screws or fastenings to ensure the chair’s stability.
Floor protectors: Use felt pads or rubber protectors on the chair’s legs to prevent scratching floors and to reduce noise when moving the chair. All Seats and Stools Breuer chairs come with a set of floor protectors.
Replacement parts: Over time, parts like the cane seating or back might wear out. Instead of replacing the entire chair, you can purchase replacement parts from Seats and Stools. We carry high-quality replacement seats, backs, frames, armrests, fasteners, and prong glides to keep your Cesca chairs looking new.

Make the Cesca Chair Yours Today With Seats and Stools

You can get this iconic, Insta-worthy piece of furniture at Seats and Stools. We have a vast range of Cesca Chair models to choose from and the option to create your own customized design.

Whether you need an accent piece for your living room or a full dining chair set for your restaurant, we have Cesca Chairs to suit every interior style. Explore our complete selection online, or contact us to learn more about our customization options.