Custom Knoll MR Lounge Chairs in Ivory Wool by Mies van der Rohe for Knoll, Pair

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the celebrated German architect and a pivotal figure in the Bauhaus movement, helped redefine 20th-century design through his exploration of form, material, and structure. Inspired by his contemporaries, including Marcel Breuer, and the innovative use of tubular steel, Mies drew from 19th-century rocking chairs to develop the iconic cantilevered designs of the MR Collection.

This particular pair of MR Lounge Chairs is a remarkable and uncommon example. Acquired from a small collection of custom-ordered Knoll pieces dating to the early 1980s, these chairs were likewise made to order for their original owners. While most MR Lounge Chairs are upholstered in leather, this set features the distinctive padded sling cushions in a handwoven KnollTextiles wool, an exceptional and seldom-seen choice. The fabric’s subtle ivory and gray earth tones remain timeless, and arguably feel more relevant today than when first produced.

The leather strapwork, integral to both Mies' vision and Knoll’s craftsmanship, remains original in a muted “Stone” tone, an ideal complement to the softness and natural warmth of the wool upholstery.

Beautifully preserved, the chairs show minimal signs of use. The wool remains crisp and vibrant, the polished chrome frames gleam, and the internal cushioning retains its structure and support. This pair is a testament to Knoll’s ability to accommodate discerning clients seeking custom solutions, and an outstanding opportunity for collectors who value design history, rarity, and individuality.