Design in Bentwood

Its elegant curves and deceptively strong properties have fascinated designers for more than a century. Known as bentwood or wood steaming, the process of using steam to soften solid wood so that it can be bent revolutionized furniture design, enabling the creation of iconic designs whose influence is still felt today. From the elegant curves of Michael Thonet's iconic bistro chair to the whimsical organic shapes of contemporary bentwood designs, this adaptable technique has long captured the imagination of designers and continues to delight enthusiasts today.

For example, bentwood is often c...