The Sitzmaschine Armchair

SITZMASCHINE ARMCHAIR

Among some of Hoffmann’s most regarded furniture pieces is the Sitzmaschine armchair. Translating to a machine for sitting, the Sitzmaschine armchair was designed by Hoffmann in 1905 as part of his commission for the Purkersdorf Sanatorium. In an attempt to unify both a building and its furnishings, it represents one of Hoffmann’s earliest experiments in creating total works of art.

Made out of a range bentwood and plywood, the armchair could be reclined by moving the position of a rod between a series of protruding knobs on the frame and also had an adjustable back; some versions of the armchair had cushions added for additional support and comfort. Adhering to Hoffmann’s philosophy of simple shapes and lines, the Sitzmaschine armchair was significant as it was one of the first furniture designs that were able to disclose both function and construction while also not sacrificing its aesthetic appeal. Its design is minimal and clean, based on the repetition of simple shapes and lines; the subtle rectangular forms of its seat, back and sides contrast with the thin swooping curved lines of the armrest, which also form its base. The arms and legs unite in defining curves that almost seem to portray the forms of machines wheels in motion.