The LC1 Basculant Chair: Symbol of the International Style



Over the years of the 20th century, the modernist movement has become a dominant force not only for architecture but for furniture design as well. One of the influences that had led to its success is the so-called International Style. First used in a book written by Henry-Russell Hitchcock and Phillip Johnson about the 1932 International Exhibition of Modern Architecture, the International Style is a architectural and furniture design that is characterized by a simple construction, the absence of ornamental decorations, and the heavy use of glass and steel, and most importantly, the honest expression of the finished design. The style was first used to described architectural works, but because most of the architects who applied the style were also furniture designers, its characteristics inevitably crossed over into furnishings. One such popular example of an International Style furnishing is the LC1 Le Corbusier Basculant chair.

When it boils down to furniture created in the pure International style, none probably exemplifies it better than the LC1 Basculant sofa. Designed in 1928, the Basculant was the brainchild of Swiss-born French architect Le Corbusier, who based the chair on classical folding and campaign chairs. The chair was originally commissioned as part of the furnishings for a villa project in the Ville d’ Avray in Paris. Then in 1929, the LC1 and the rest of Le Corbusier’s furniture designs were shown at the Equipment for the Home installation during the Salon d’ Automne exhibition in France.

Le Corbusier liked to integrate characteristics of the International Style into his work, and this was very evident in the Basculant Chair. Composed of mainly leather and steel, the LC1 boasted soft, minimal lines and an ergonomic construction that was revolutionary for its day. The chair’s legs and frame were created from forged and welded tubular steel and coated with high-gloss plating. It also featured a series of hexagonal bolts planted on specific areas of the chair interior, providing it with ample support giving it a bulky appearance. What’s more, the LC1 incorporated a movable rod at the frame, allowing the seat to tilt according to the occupant’s sitting position.

Aside from being created in the International style, the LC1 is also known for two things: it is extremely comfortable and its leather-strap arm rests. The rod at the back of the chair frame was able to tilt far back, making the Basculant somewhat of a makeshift lounge chair. Also, the chair’s distinctive armrests were composed of thick leather straps, providing comfort for the arms while at the same time giving it the effect of freedom and mobility.