By John Stuart Inc., Milo Baughman, Design Institute America
Located in Chattanooga, TN
A set of high-back Parsons chairs from the 1970s by Design Institute of America, these pieces deftly combine sleek chrome architecture with the warm comfort of tufted brown chevron-velour upholstery.
The frame is flat-bar chrome, polished by hand to recover its original brilliance; legs and supports are thick, bold, and squared, lending the chairs a graphic architectural structure. The upholstery is plush brown chevron velour, originally tufted, deep in pile and texture, evoking both luxury and vintage warmth. The fabric has been professionally steam-cleaned, retaining much of its original character though showing minimal, age-appropriate wear that affirms authentic vintage pedigree.
Condition is excellent. Chrome surfaces are bright with only subtle flaws visible under close inspection. Upholstery is sound: seams are tight, backs straight, cushions supportive. Minor signs of use—slight darkening or softening in high-contact areas.
These chairs are versatile. They excel around dining tables, in ensembles of side chairs, or as statement pieces flanking consoles or desks. Their chrome frames reflect light, brightening spaces; their tufted backs and velvet bring texture, comfort, pattern. They pair especially well with wood tones, mirrored or glass surfaces, warm leathers, and neutral palettes seeking warmth and vintage glamour.
For collectors of chrome modernism, vintage Parsons styles, or pieces by DIA (Design Institute of America), this set offers rarity, integrity, and presence. These are chairs deliver more than seating, atmosphere, design lineage, and the kind of visual trajectory that holds up in both modern and traditional interiors.
What's more 70's legit than tufted brown chevron velour? These aluminum leg parsons dining chairs check all the boxes and are back in vogue with a vengeance. Perched on chrome flat-bar bases...
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs
