Bauhaus Furniture UK — Style Guide & Best Replica Pieces 2026
The Bauhaus school — founded in Weimar, Germany in 1919 — produced some of the most enduring furniture designs in history. Marcel Breuer's tubular steel chairs, Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Chair, and Wilhelm Wagenfeld's table lamp are still as relevant today as they were a century ago.
Best of all, many of these iconic designs are now in the public domain — meaning high-quality replicas are legal, accessible, and surprisingly affordable.
What is Bauhaus Furniture?
Bauhaus furniture is defined by a few core principles:
- Form follows function: Every element serves a purpose. No ornament for its own sake.
- Industrial materials: Steel tubing, plywood, leather — materials of the modern age.
- Geometric simplicity: Clean lines, right angles, minimal curves.
- Honest construction: Structure is visible, not hidden.
The result is furniture that looks as contemporary today as it did in the 1920s — which is why Bauhaus pieces are perennial bestsellers.
Iconic Bauhaus Furniture Pieces
Wassily Chair (Marcel Breuer, 1925)
The first chair to use bent tubular steel, the Wassily was revolutionary. Its open frame and sling seat make it one of the most recognisable chairs ever designed. Look for versions with solid steel tubing and genuine leather slings.
Barcelona Chair (Mies van der Rohe, 1929)
Designed for the German Pavilion at the 1929 World Exhibition, this cross-legged chair with tufted leather cushions is the ultimate Bauhaus status piece. See our Barcelona Chair replicas →
MR Chair (Mies van der Rohe, 1927)
A cantilevered chair that defies gravity. The sprung steel base gives it a gentle bounce that's surprisingly comfortable.
Cesca Chair (Marcel Breuer, 1928)
A cantilevered side chair with a woven cane seat and back. Simple, elegant, and works in virtually any interior.
How to Style Bauhaus Furniture
Bauhaus pieces are versatile — here's how to use them effectively:
- Mix with warm materials: Pair steel and leather with wood floors and linen textiles to soften the industrial edge.
- Keep it minimal: Bauhaus furniture is statement-making. Let pieces breathe — don't overcrowd.
- Stick to a neutral palette: Black, white, grey, cognac, and natural wood tones work best.
- Layer with plants: Greenery adds warmth and contrast to geometric steel furniture.
Bauhaus Furniture Replicas UK — Where to Buy
Mobelaris stocks a curated selection of Bauhaus-inspired replica furniture, all legal under public domain design law. Free UK delivery, up to 70% off original prices.