Warren Platner (June 18, 1919 – April 17, 2006) was an American architect and interior designer. Platner produced a furniture collection that has proved to be a continuing icon of 1960s modernism. He is also renowned for designing several prominent interiors in New York City, including the headquarters offices for the Ford Foundation building and the original Windows on the World restaurant, located atop the World Trade Center. Platner was part of Eero Saarinen’s office from 1960 to 1965, participating in the design for the Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C., the Repertory Theatre at Lincoln Center, John Deere World Headquarters, and several dormitories at Yale University. Working in the firms of Eero Saarinen and Kevin Roche in the early and mid-1960s, Platner unveiled his seminal collection of chairs, ottomans, and tables in 1966. Produced with a grant from the Graham Foundation, each piece rested on a sculptural base of nickel-plated steel rods resembling a “shiny sheaf of wheat.” Production was complicated. The sculptural bases were made of hundreds of rods; for some, chairs required more than 1,000 welds. An intricate, cylindrical mesh steel base created a unique architectural interplay between the interior and exterior spaces, supported by the upholstered seat. The collection has been in continuous production since its introduction, reflecting the ever-growing interest in mid-century modern design among collectors. Platner defined a ‘classic’ as something that every time you look at it, you accept it as it is and see no way of improving. Manufactured in Italy. Dimensions: H 29 1/4" x Diameter 54" Material: Steel rod structure with black lacquer finish. Top in laminate, marble, solid oak, and porcelain.
