Everyone Owned One In The '60s — The Trendy Chair That's Having A Comeback

Interior designs of the 1960s were all about bold patterns, shapes, and colors. It was an era of design that took risks and played with whimsy, even when it came to furniture. With homeowners nowadays over the cookie-cutter looks of neutral minimalism and craving to showcase personality, it's no surprise that the iconic pieces of the '60s, like statement chairs, are making their way onto mood boards. While the cozy egg chair and hanging bubble chair were unique staples that broke the mold, it's the Up chair of the '60s that is trending again.

Inspired by the elasticity of a sponge, Gaetano Pesce designed the Up chair with a bulbous backrest and curvy seat, mimicking that of a woman's physique. The sculptural chair is further accentuated by a spherical ottoman connected by an elastic cord. Not to be outdone by the shape, the chair was also designed in vibrant solid shades and colorful striped patterns. The whimsical yet dynamic look fits the current desire for personality in interior design, complements a variety of spaces, and pairs well with the bold furniture trend that's adding extra charm to homes. "Stripes are timeless, so the pattern doesn't feel too heavy, while still adding a great burst of color," Diana Farberov, the founder of Artemuse Design, spoke of the Up chair to The Spruce. "It really acts as both furniture and art without feeling too serious!"

There are several ways to style the Up chair and decorate your interior with curved furniture. Since its extra cozy design and ergonomic shape are key features, the Up chair is ideal for lounging. If space permits, add it in your bedroom for a relaxing corner that'll maximize the space for more than just sleeping. Plus, it'll bring a lovely contrast to a traditional rectangular bed. The chair is slightly lower to the ground, with a seat height typically of 16 inches, where standard sofas are usually 18 inches high. It can read too whimsical for a formal living space, but be on brand for rooms with chaises, bean bags, or floor cushions. The Up chair is an easy way to add a soft touch to your home without compromising dynamic design.

The Up chair is a designer piece, sold at a luxury price. New authentic chairs from the relaunch of Gaetano Pesce's designs sell for over $8,000. Finding one of these chairs in a thrift store is highly unlikely, but a few previously loved ones were spotted on auction sites ranging from $5,000 to $11,000. Up chairs from the original discontinued series fetch a higher price than those from the rereleased 2000 collection. There are also a few dupes on the market that you can score, like the Light Luxury Modern Designer Lazy Sofa from Walmart, for roughly $400. The difference might not be noticeable to the untrained eye, but don't expect the same craftsmanship.