Metalworker Xavier Pauchard not only brought the art of galvanizing steel to France, but took the process to the next level by creating the Marais A Chair (1934), the quintessential cafe chair that was both elegant and robust enough to grace the decks of the S.S. Normandie ocean liner. “Xavier Pauchard’s Chaise A is a perfect synthesis created by a man possessed of an understanding of raw materials – and the tools used to work them,” said Serge Lemoine, former director of Musee d’Orsay, Paris. The Collection expanded to stools as well, and all Tolix metal furniture is still made in Autun, the same Burgundy town where it all began. Slight surface abrasions and markings are characteristic of the material and part of its hardworking machine aesthetic. Rubber feet prevent damage to floors. The stools can be used inside your home or outside (although you will need to bring them inside during poor weather, so they don’t suffer damage) and are available in tall or short versions.

Read more: fresh design blog
Stack-able up to 8 high. Made in France.

designer: xavier pauchard
producer: tolix
materials: Sheet steel with epoxy varnish or powder coating
period: made the same way since 1934