Artifort Modern Dutch Furniture

Artifort has created some of the most expressive and enduring furniture designs of the modern era. Known for sculptural forms, exceptional upholstery and vivid color, the Dutch brand combines artistic experimentation with a deep understanding of comfort.

Its collection includes iconic lounge chairs by Pierre Paulin, influential contract furniture by Geoffrey D. Harcourt and contemporary designs by an international roster of creative talent. Whether placed in a living room, workplace or hospitality interior, Artifort furniture brings distinctive character to the space while remaining inviting and functional.

More Than 135 Years of Dutch Design

Artifort’s story began in 1890, when Jules Wagemans established an upholstery business in Maastricht, the Netherlands. His son, Henricus Wagemans, expanded the company into a furniture factory known for its craftsmanship and comfort.

The Artifort name was introduced in 1928. It combines ars, the Latin word for art or knowledge, with fortis, meaning strong or powerful. The name also evokes “comfort,” expressing the qualities that continue to define the collection: artful design, durable construction and an exceptional seating experience.

During the 1930s, Artifort adopted innovative interior springing technology that improved comfort, longevity and production efficiency. This early willingness to rethink traditional furniture construction established a culture of experimentation that would shape the company for generations. Explore Artifort’s history.

Pierre Paulin and the Art of Sitting

Artifort’s international breakthrough began with designer and creative director Kho Liang Ie, whose forward-looking vision connected the company with an emerging generation of design talent. In 1959, he invited French designer Pierre Paulin to work with Artifort.

Paulin introduced innovative construction methods using foam-covered tubular metal frames and stretch upholstery. These techniques freed seating from the rigid structure of traditional furniture and allowed him to create fluid, organic silhouettes that seemed to be sculpted around the human body.

The resulting designs—including the Mushroom, Orange Slice, Ribbon, Tongue and Oyster chairs—became defining expressions of twentieth-century furniture design. Bold yet comfortable, they transformed an armchair into a colorful sculptural presence. Today, these original designs remain central to the Artifort collection and continue to feel strikingly contemporary.

Icons by Geoffrey D. Harcourt

British designer Geoffrey D. Harcourt joined Artifort’s creative circle in the early 1960s, developing an extensive range of furniture for offices, lounges and public interiors. His work combines sculptural clarity with exceptional comfort and frequently incorporates swivel bases, generous upholstery and enveloping shapes.

Harcourt’s chairs and sofas helped expand Artifort’s international presence in the contract market. Their adaptable character makes them equally compelling in modern residences, executive offices, hotel lobbies and other shared spaces.

Together, the work of Paulin, Harcourt and Kho Liang Ie established the visual language for which Artifort remains known: progressive forms, precise upholstery and an expressive use of color.

Historic Icons and Contemporary Furniture

Artifort continues to place historic designs in conversation with new ideas. Its contemporary collection includes work by Jasper Morrison, Khodi Feiz, Patrick Norguet, Monica Förster, René Holten, Luca Nichetto and Norm Architects.

The collection extends beyond lounge chairs to include sofas, modular seating, dining and conference chairs, stools and tables. Designs range from dramatic statement pieces to restrained furniture that integrates easily into residential and professional interiors.

A broad selection of fabrics, leathers and base finishes makes each piece highly personal. Color can emphasize the sculptural form of an Artifort chair or help it settle quietly into the surrounding palette.

Made for Comfort and Longevity

Artifort furniture is developed around the inseparable relationship between aesthetics, ergonomics and craftsmanship. Internal structures, foam construction and upholstery are carefully engineered to create lasting support without compromising the purity of each design.

Longevity is also fundamental to Artifort’s environmental approach. The company supports repair and reupholstery, incorporates recycled materials and works with certified fabrics and woods. Furniture and components are produced at its facilities in Schijndel, the Netherlands, and Lanaken, Belgium, with an emphasis on local suppliers and reduced transportation-related emissions.

Every Artifort product has an eco material passport detailing its material composition and applicable certifications. These efforts support the company’s goal of creating furniture that can be maintained, renewed and enjoyed for a lifetime. Learn about Artifort’s sustainability program.

Discover Artifort at Scott + Cooner

Scott + Cooner offers Artifort furniture for contemporary homes, workplaces and hospitality interiors. Our experienced team can help homeowners, architects and interior designers select the ideal design, upholstery, color and finish for each project.

Visit Scott + Cooner to experience Artifort’s celebrated comfort and sculptural forms firsthand. Contact our team for product information, pricing, dimensions, material samples and personalized assistance with your Artifort furniture selection.