When your occupation involves sitting at a desk for extended periods of time, your office chair is crucial to both comfort, health, and interior design aesthetic. As you explore modern furniture options to suit your home office or company workspace, here’s some information on the history of office chairs to get your wheels turning. 

A Brief History of Office Chairs

The Original

Some say the office chair dates all the way back to the Roman Empire and Julius Ceasar. When conducting official government business and meeting with leaders and magistrates, Caesar sat in a curule chair. This special seat resembled a camp stool with big, curved legs that allowed the seated person to lean comfortably. Designs were ornate and dignified and became the earliest predecessor to the chair currently paired with desks. 

Common Usage

With the rise of the railroad and the Industrial Revolution, desks and office chairs were no longer reserved for wealthy and important government dignitaries. Seated jobs became more commonplace, and designing chairs that were comfortable for middle management roles became a top priority. Soon the trend would multiply throughout the workforce.

Modern Trends

After World War II, the design of office chairs become focused on both design, functionality, and easy production for comfort and affordability. At this time, office chairs began to resemble what we see in modern workplaces.

In the 1970s, ergonomic design geared toward human comfort and back support came to the forefront of the industry. Today, individuals are able to shop for a wide range of modern furniture and matching desk and chair sets that are supportive and designed for extended sitting. 

Are you looking for a desk and office chair that are both functional and visually appealing? If so, BOVA Contemporary Furniture is the perfect shopping destination for you. Known for modern furniture pieces that are stylish, high-quality, and fairly priced, this interior design haven has something for every taste and budget. Call their Cincinnati, OH, location today at (513) 247-9100 to connect with a friendly member of their sales team. For more information on the company’s rich history and e-commerce department since first launching in Denmark in 1980, visit their website or take a virtual tour.