The History of ercol
ercol was established over 100 years ago in 1920 by Italian designer Lucian R Ercolani in High Wycombe, the centre of English furniture making.
Still a family owned business, now headed up by Lucian’s great grandson, the business continues it’s ethos of creating unique pieces all of which are made with integrity and fit for purpose.
Based on simple, functionality and clean, timeless designs, may explain why ercol remains a popular design choice today.
Iconic furniture design
Four of the most iconic ercol products, launched in 1956 included: The Loveseat, The Studio Couch, Butterfly Chair and Stacking Chair, and are still popular choices today, almost 70 years later.
The Loveseat
A romantic interpretation of the classic Windsor chair, the LOVESEAT designed in 1956, is a testament to Lucian Ercolani’s meticulous attention to detail; it showcases his signature fusion of beauty and functionality.
Drawing inspiration from the Windsor chair’s silhouette, the LOVESEAT features a moulded seat and spindle backrest, gently curved to align with the body’s natural contours and provide optimal comfort.
Ideal for cosying up around a dining table or serving as an elegant statement piece in a hallway or bedroom, the LOVESEAT is more than just seating.
“It’s a piece of art that invites connection and conversation.”
The Studio Couch
Echoing the design elements of the classic LOVESEAT, the STUDIO COUCH is ingeniously crafted to serve as both a spacious sofa and a welcoming single bed for guests.
Despite its vintage origins, the STUDIO COUCH stands as a testament to enduring design, proving that true style is indeed timeless.
Its ability to adapt to the evolving needs of contemporary living makes it not just a piece of furniture, but…
“A living piece of history that continues to offer comfort and convenience.”
Butterfly Chair
The subtle curves and sculptural refinement are a nod to its namesake, suggesting the delicate wings of a butterfly in flight.
This iconic everyday dining chair has become a beloved mid-century classic, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of furniture making.
The pioneering technique of shaping laminated wood into precise, curved forms was seen as a breakthrough, marrying innovation with the body’s natural contours.
The Butterfly chair marking a significant milestone in the evolution of furniture making.
Stacking Chair
Quite possibly the most instantly recognised ercol chairs from the 1950’s.
Purpose-built for convenience, the outward-facing legs of the STACKING CHAIR allow the chairs to be stacked vertically when not in use.
This reminded of my school days, when we would gather and stack chairs at the back of the hall after assembly; a testament to the chair’s enduring practicality.
Merging functionality and aesthetic appeal the STACKING CHAIR was produced in the thousands during the 50s and 60s.
Its ergonomic design, a hallmark of all the products I’ve discussed, ensures the STACKING CHAIR remains a popular choice in our homes even today, bridging the gap between past and present with its timeless design.
Merging functionality and aesthetic appeal.
ercol in the 21st Century
As we fast forward over a century, the popularity of ercol furniture continues, captivating furniture enthusiasts and interior stylists who scour vintage shops and collectors nationwide for these sought after pieces.
After more than 80 years of crafting history in High Wycombe, England, ercol’s journey continued in Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, where its legacy of manufacturing British furniture continues.
The year 2021 marked a pivotal moment with the introduction of L.Ercolani.
A collection of contemporary designs, that pay homage to founder Lucian Ercolani’s vision of creating furniture that is modern, honest, and exquisitely crafted.
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