Description
Rare "Speed" lounge chair, designed by British designer Tom Dixon (born 1959) for Space Design in the United Kingdom in the early 1990s. An iconic design featuring a sleek, forged iron frame fully braided with cord/rope in a warm, natural hue. The chair is considered an early, collectible Dixon design—from the same experimental period as his famous S-chair—and is now difficult to find.
The sculptural, undulating shape flows in a single, flowing line from the headrest to the footrest. The light spring in the iron frame and the sleek braiding technique make the chair surprisingly comfortable, while also serving as a work of art in any interior.
Design & Production
Model: ‘Speed’ lounge / chaise longue
Designer: Tom Dixon, for Space Design
Period: circa 1990s
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Material: Forged iron frame with woven rope / rattan cord
Color: Natural, light brown
Condition
In good, sturdy vintage condition. The iron frame is solid and the wickerwork is load-bearing throughout. Only minor signs of wear and age consistent with the age and material (minor imperfections in the rope, minimal discoloration). No broken parts in the seat, ready for immediate use.
Why it's special
Sought-after, early work by Tom Dixon, produced in relatively small quantities
A beautiful blend of craftsmanship (hand-woven cord) and postmodern, sculptural design
Functions as both a comfortable lounge chair and a statement piece/art object
Beautiful in a modern, industrial, boho, or wabi-sabi interior, but also perfect for a gallery, hotel, lobby, or photo studio
Styling tip
Combine with a soft wool throw and a minimalist side table in wood, steel, or travertine. The open structure of the wickerwork casts beautiful shadows on the floor – ideal for photography and styling.
Specifications
ConditionGoodColorsBrownMaterialRattan, IronNumber of items1Brand / designerDixonBrandTom DixonHeight121 cmWidth55 cmDepth122 cmSeat height54 cmSigns of usageDiscoloring, Scratches