Beginnings in Modern Outdoor Furniture

Knoll’s journey into outdoor furniture began in the mid-20th century, during a period when the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living spaces were starting to blur. As people began to prioritise outdoor spaces as extensions of their homes, there was a growing demand for furniture that could blend seamlessly with both environments. Knoll, under the creative direction of Florence Knoll and collaborations with notable designers, responded to this shift by introducing a range of outdoor pieces that were both visually striking and highly functional.

The Pioneering 1966 Collection by Richard Schultz

A landmark moment in Knoll’s outdoor furniture history came with the introduction of the 1966 Collection, designed by Richard Schultz. This collection was a direct response to a personal request from Florence Knoll herself. She needed outdoor furniture that could withstand the harsh conditions of her seaside home in Florida—a challenge that existing furniture on the market at the time couldn’t meet. Schultz’s response was both inventive and groundbreaking: the 1966 Collection was engineered to endure the elements without sacrificing the sleek, minimalist aesthetic that defined modernism.

The 1966 Collection introduced several pioneering design elements that were unusual for outdoor furniture in the 1960s. Made from weather-resistant materials such as aluminium and stainless steel with a protective polyester powder-coat finish, the furniture was not only visually light and elegant but also incredibly durable. The use of high-performance, woven vinyl mesh for seating added comfort and breathability, making the pieces practical for extended outdoor use. The collection featured a range of pieces, from the iconic adjustable chaise lounge to dining chairs and tables, each designed to form a cohesive, modern outdoor environment.
The elegance of the 1966 Collection lies in its combination of clean lines, durable materials, and timeless style. The pieces are celebrated for their simplicity, versatility, and ability to seamlessly blend with various architectural settings, whether by the pool, on a terrace, or in a garden. The collection has stood the test of time and remains a staple of Knoll's outdoor offerings, proving that good design is indeed timeless.

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The Sculptural Brilliance of the Bertoia Collection

Alongside the success of the 1966 Collection, Knoll’s outdoor range was further elevated by the innovative designs of Harry Bertoia. The Bertoia Collection, originally created in 1952 for indoor use, was later adapted for outdoor settings due to its unique and versatile design. The collection includes the Bertoia Side Chair, the Bertoia Diamond Chair, and the Bertoia Bar Stool, all of which have become icons of mid-century modern design.

The genius of the Bertoia Collection lies in its sculptural form and the way it plays with negative space. Constructed from bent steel rods, each chair is an exploration of how industrial materials can be transformed into something unexpectedly beautiful and comfortable. Bertoia himself described his chairs as being "made mainly of air, like sculpture. Space passes right through them." For outdoor versions, Knoll introduced stainless steel frames with weather-resistant finishes, ensuring the pieces could withstand outdoor elements without losing their elegance.
The Bertoia chairs are not just functional seating; they are sculptural art pieces that enhance any outdoor setting. Their airy frames blend seamlessly into natural surroundings, providing a sense of lightness and openness that complements open-air environments. The Bertoia Collection has remained a beloved part of Knoll’s portfolio, embodying the brand’s commitment to blending art with functionality.

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