Seagull Chair | Gösta Berg and Sten-Erik Eriksson for Fritz Hansen

Designed by Gösta Berg and Sten-Erik Eriksson for Fritz Hansen, the Seagull Chair is defined by its sweeping, wing-like silhouette. In our Antwerp atelier, we reupholstered this example in warm cognac leather, bringing its sculptural form back into focus.

First presented at the Cologne Furniture Fair in 1968, the chair remained in production until 1973. Its short production run makes it an uncommon piece within Fritz Hansen’s history. Behind its expressive appearance lies a considered approach to seating: the design grew out of research into supporting the body while allowing freedom of movement. The intention was to create a chair in which rest and movement could coexist.

The broad seat curves upwards into open, outward-reaching arms, while the high back and separate neck cushion complete its distinctive profile. A slender metal base gives the upholstered form a sense of lightness. These different elements come together in a design that is immediately recognisable from several angles.

For our reupholstery, cognac leather brings warmth and depth to the chair’s continuous curves. The material follows the changing contours of the seat, arms and back, making their relationship clearly visible. Its rich colour also draws attention to the silhouette, with the polished base providing a lighter visual foundation.

Working on a chair with such a distinctive form calls for close attention to its proportions. The upholstery is central to how the design is read: the transition between surfaces, the outline of each curve and the shape of the neck cushion all contribute to the whole. Our work preserves that visual identity while giving the chair a renewed finish.

Design: Gösta Berg & Sten-Erik Eriksson
Original manufacturer: Fritz Hansen
Introduced: 1968
Reupholstery: Bea Joppen
Material: Cognac leather
Commissioned: all in all studio