Throughout the mid-20th century, Parker Furniture helped define the look and feel of Australian homes. Founded in Sydney by Jack Parker and later shaped by his son Tony, the brand combined the clean lines of international modernism with a local sensibility. Drawing inspiration from Scandinavian and British design, Parker Furniture developed its own style, rooted in proportion, functionality, and honesty of materials.
Crafted from timbers such as teak and blackwood, Parker pieces became a staple in households across the country. The brand's strength lay not only in aesthetics, but also in usability. Each piece was designed to adapt to evolving lifestyles and built to last. Today, Parker furniture is recognised as a cornerstone of Australian design history, with many of its most iconic pieces available through our Parker collection on Bazaa. These pieces have been fully restored and are ready to be enjoyed in new homes.
Sofas with Structure and Simplicity
Parker sofas are renowned for their solid timber frames, sleek designs and practical comfort. They embody the brand’s approach to furniture design, combining essential functionality with an architectural aesthetic. The Model 158 three-seater sofa is the perfect example of this. With its floating base, slightly curved arms and exposed teak frame, it sits confidently in vintage and contemporary interiors of all kinds. The minimal upholstery allows the shape and timber to take centre stage.
If you prefer something with more visual impact, the Model 110 offers a continuous armrest and sculpted lines. Its form invites you in without overpowering the space. Both models reflect Parker’s design values: they are well proportioned, built to last, and comfortable without excess.
Dining Chairs That Define a Room
Parker’s dining chairs are among its most recognisable designs. They appear lightweight yet are structurally sound. The Nordic dining chairs combine curved backrests with tapered blackwood legs. The result is both refined and ergonomic. These chairs don’t just sit around a table; they help to create the atmosphere of a dining space.
The Matchstick dining chairs take a more expressive approach. Their vertical slatted backs create texture and play with shadows, giving them a more sculptural appearance. Despite their slim profile, they are stable and comfortable. These practical yet visually striking designs continue to be used in modern Australian homes and interiors.
Dining Tables for the Modern Household
The Parker dining table was designed to meet the evolving needs of Australian families. The D-End extension table is both generous in size and versatile in function. It extends smoothly to offer flexibility without disrupting the flow of the room. Its rounded ends soften its form, while the solid teak construction demonstrates Parker’s commitment to durability.
The round pedestal table is ideal for smaller spaces. With no corners and a single central base, it is easy to manoeuvre and is perfect for apartments or smaller rooms. Both designs reflect Parker’s attention to detail and understanding of how furniture is used on a daily basis.
Sideboards That Anchor a Space
In many homes, the Parker sideboard is a real statement piece. These designs offered more than just storage; they also provided symmetry, texture and a focal point. The Lip Handle Sideboard is one of the brand’s most iconic designs. Its horizontal lines and recessed handles are subtle yet striking, making it easy to pair with other mid-century or contemporary furniture.
The square handle version has a stronger geometric presence. The teak grain stands out against the boxy shape, and the proportions are clean and balanced. These pieces are built for function, offering plenty of storage and easy access, but they also add a strong visual foundation to any room.
Armchairs with a Sculptural Edge
Parker’s armchairs offer the same clarity as their larger counterparts, but with scope for greater sculptural expression. The mid-century teak armchair has a low, open and structured design. Its solid frame creates a clear silhouette, and the seat and back cushions provide comfort and softness.
The rare sleigh-based armchairs from the 1960s are more playful. The curved base gives the chairs a sense of motion and makes them feel lighter than their solid construction suggests. While these chairs are highly collectible, they are also functional pieces suited to lounge areas and reading corners.
Parker Furniture represents a significant chapter in the history of Australian design. Its pieces are not only built to last, but also designed to remain relevant despite changing tastes over the decades. Crafted from quality materials with great care, these pieces continue to be used, restored and passed down through the generations.
At Bazaa, we focus on sourcing original Parker pieces to help them find new life in today’s homes. Whether it's a three-seater sofa, a dining chair set or a sculptural sideboard, these designs are as useful and visually balanced today as when they were first made. Their ongoing relevance is their legacy: a quiet confidence that continues to resonate through interior design.