series 7 chair
Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1955, its sculptural silhouette is both timeless and highly versatile.
Formed from 9 layers of pressure moulded veneer, it delivers strength, flexibility and durability within a slender, elegant profile.
Today, it remains the most popular design in Fritz Hansen’s collection.
What is the history of the Series 7 chair?
The Series 7™ chair was introduced in 1955 during the post-war modernist movement a period defined by a shift towards simplicity, functionality and clean, organic forms.
Developed as a successor to the Ant chair, Arne Jacobsen refined the concept into a larger, more practical design with four legs and optional armrests. It was first presented at the H55 exhibition in Helsinki and quickly became a defining piece of Scandinavian design. Unlike many of Jacobsen’s works, the Series 7 was not tied to a single project, yet it was soon integrated into his architectural schemes, including Rødovre Town Hall.
Its cultural profile was further amplified in the 1960s during the Profumo affair, when a widely circulated image of Christine Keeler featured a high street copy of the chair. Despite not being an original, the moment cemented its place in design history. Today, the Series 7 remains in continuous production and is used globally across residential and commercial interiors.
the design
The 3107 model features slim steel-tubed legs that extend slightly beyond the seat, allowing for easy stacking and efficient row arrangements. The base is mounted to a discreet circular fixing beneath the shell, reinforcing the chair’s clean, minimal expression.
how are they made?
who was Arne Jacobsen?
Arne Jacobsen (1902–1971) was a defining figure in Danish modernism, known for his ability to unite architecture and design through a clear, functional aesthetic. From an early age, his thinking set him apart, famously painting his childhood bedroom entirely white at a time when it was anything but conventional.Over his career, Jacobsen’s work shaped design well beyond Scandinavia. He approached every project with meticulous attention to detail, from large-scale buildings to furniture and objects. His legacy includes some of the most enduring designs of the 20th century, including the Egg™, Swan™, Series 7™ and Drop™ chairs.
Learn more about Arne Jacobsen on our journal, the story of Arne Jacobsen.
what are the choices in the series 7 collection?
with + without arms, choice of legs
The Series 7 has evolved into a highly adaptable design system. From its original launch, it was offered with and without armrests, as well as on different bases including swivel options. Over time, additional features such as writing tablets and row connectors were introduced to support use in larger spaces.Its ability to stack, link and adapt makes it suitable for everything from dining settings to auditoriums. Alongside its functional versatility, the chair has also seen numerous reinterpretations through colour and collaboration, while always retaining its original form.
Discover the different variations in our series 7 collection.
lacquered + wood
The Series 7™ is available in a considered range of wood and lacquered finishes, each offering a distinct expression of the same iconic form.
Natural wood finishes reveal the character of the veneer, bringing warmth, texture and variation to the surface. Each piece subtly reflects the material it is made from, adding depth while maintaining the clarity of the design.
shop the wood version series 7 chair
Lacquered versions are available in 2 versions. One where you can see the grain (the coloured ash version) and the other without which offers a more uniform appearance, with a smooth, coloured finish that conceals the grain beneath. The result is a clean, consistent surface that sits effortlessly within more contemporary interiors.
shop the lacquered series 7 chair, shop the coloured ash series 7 chair
lacquered + coloured ash close ups
upholstered
For a softer and more tactile expression, the Series 7 is also available in upholstered versions.
Fabric or leather is applied to the moulded shell, adding an additional layer of comfort while retaining the chair’s original form. The upholstery enhances the seating experience without compromising the simplicity and precision of Jacobsen’s design.
shop the series 7 velvet upholstered chair, series 7 leather chair
bar + office version
Bar and counter stools
The Series 7™ is also available in bar and counter height versions, translating the original design into a taller, more architectural form. The familiar moulded shell is paired with an elevated base, maintaining the same lightness and clean profile while making it suitable for kitchen islands, bars and hospitality settings.
Office chairs
For more functional environments, the Series 7 extends into office and home office chair formats. Typically set on a swivel base, these versions retain the clarity of the original design while adapting it for movement and everyday use in workspace settings, balancing practicality with the same refined aesthetic.
shop series 7 office chairs with arms, office chairs without arms
how to spot a fake?
As one of the most recognisable chairs ever produced, the Series 7 has been widely copied.Notably, the chair featured in the famous 1963 Christine Keeler photograph was not an original, but a high street version highlighting how frequently the design has been imitated.
As one of the most recognisable chairs in modern design, the Series 7™ has been widely copied. While many replicas capture the outline, the difference lies in the detail both in how the chair is made and how it performs over time.
Authentic Series 7 chairs are produced exclusively by Fritz Hansen and reflect a level of precision that is difficult to replicate. The original is formed from pressure-moulded veneer, creating a refined, slender shell with subtle curves and a balanced profile.
Copies often appear thicker, less resolved and heavier in form, lacking the same fluidity and proportion. Construction is one of the clearest indicators. Originals are engineered for strength and flexibility, while replicas are typically more rigid and can fail under stress.
The difference is not always visible immediately, but becomes apparent through use and longevity. Fritz Hansen also marks its products to ensure authenticity. Genuine pieces are labelled with a unique ID number, along with details such as the designer, year of manufacture and origin. Many also carry a Fritz Hansen tag, which has evolved over time but remains a consistent marker of authenticity. Beyond physical details, provenance matters. Authentic chairs are sold through authorised retailers, forming part of Fritz Hansen’s controlled network. Pieces sold outside of this are not connected to the manufacturer, and their authenticity cannot be guaranteed.
The distinction ultimately comes down to more than appearance. An original Series 7 reflects the full intent of Arne Jacobsen’s design precision, balance and material integrity. Replicas may echo the silhouette, but rarely achieve the same level of craftsmanship or durability.
FAQS
the series 7 chair
When was the Series 7 chair designed?
1955.
Who designed the Series 7 chair?
Arne Jacobsen, as part of his wider work in Danish modernist design.
What is it made from?
9 layers of pressure-moulded laminated veneer with a steel base.
Why is it called Series 7?
It refers to the model number, 3107.
Is the Series 7 chair still in production?
Yes continuously since its launch in 1955.
What makes the Series 7 chair unique?
Its single-piece moulded shell, combining strength, flexibility and a refined, ergonomic form.
Is the Series 7 chair comfortable?
Yes. The curved shell is shaped to support the body, making it an early example of ergonomic furniture design.
Can the Series 7 chair be stacked?
Yes. The design allows for easy stacking, making it practical for both residential and commercial use.
Where is the Series 7 chair typically used?
In homes, offices, restaurants, auditoriums and public spaces worldwide.
Does the Series 7 chair come with armrests?
Yes. It has been available both with and without armrests since its original launch.
Are there different versions of the Series 7 chair?
Yes. Variations include different bases, finishes, upholstered, office and bar versions and with and without arms.
Why is the Series 7 chair so popular?
Its balance of simplicity, durability and versatility has made it one of the most widely used chairs in modern design.
Is the Series 7 chair a good investment?
As a design that has remained in continuous production and global use, it holds lasting relevance both functionally and aesthetically.
How can you tell if a Series 7 chair is authentic?
Authentic versions are produced by Fritz Hansen using pressure-moulded veneer construction and precise manufacturing methods. Replicas may echo the silhouette, but rarely achieve the same level of craftsmanship or durability.
Are there many replicas of the Series 7 chair?
Yes. Its popularity has led to widespread imitation, though copies often differ in quality and construction.
