Reliable Delivery
Secure Payments
Curated Selection
Kinder Purchase
Details
This highly sought-after Tessa T4 couch, designed by Fred Lowen for Tessa Furniture in the early 1970s, is a standout piece of Australian mid-century modern design. Featuring the signature sculptural bent-ply teak-toned timber frame with elegant curves and sleigh legs, it suspends comfortable removable cushions on a supportive white netted hammock base—delivering that classic low-profile, spacious, and supremely comfortable “sink-in” seating experience.
What makes this example truly special is the original Tessa upholstery: a rich burnt-orange velvet with bold black geometric and tribal-inspired patterning. This is a genuine original Tessa fabric (still bearing tags) and appears to be a custom order—we’ve never seen another T4 finished like this. It’s pure retro groove, full of warmth, depth and 1970s character that photographs simply cannot do justice to. In person the colour glows, the velvet has beautiful texture, and the whole piece feels alive.
The frame shows honest signs of age consistent with a 50+ year-old piece, including one small missing piece of veneer on a back corner, but is otherwise structurally sound and presents beautifully. The layered plywood construction and warm timber tone still shine through. The cushions remain soft, supportive and inviting.
Condition: Very good vintage condition overall. The original velvet upholstery is in excellent shape with rich colour and pattern intact. Frame is solid with only minor expected wear (including the small veneer loss noted). Presents exceptionally well and is ready for immediate enjoyment.
Dimensions
• Width: 183 cm
• Depth: ~88–94 cm
• Height: 83 cm (back)
• Seat height: 40 cm
We are genuinely in awe of this one. A true one-of-a-kind collector’s piece that blends iconic Australian design with rare original fabric you simply don’t see every day. Perfect as a statement mid-century lounge, reading nook centrepiece, or the standout feature in a modern space that needs some soul.
Brand & Designer
Tessa
Color
Orange
Style
Mid-Century Modern
Material
Other Wood
Condition
Average
Dimensions (cm)
183.0W x 94.0D x 83.0H
Design Story
Founded in the late 1960s in Melbourne by Fred Lowen, Tessa became famous for its sculptural timber furniture and luxurious leather lounges. At a time when Australian interiors were becoming more modern and open, the company introduced designs that felt both sophisticated and comfortable, perfectly suited to the local lifestyle.
Tessa’s furniture was heavily influenced by Danish modernism, particularly through its use of rich timber frames, organic curves, and high quality leather. Yet unlike some European modernist furniture that could feel formal or restrained, Tessa pieces had a softer and more relaxed character designed for everyday living.
The brand became especially well known for its modular leather sofas and reclining lounge chairs, many of which are still highly sought after today. Their combination of solid craftsmanship, deep comfort, and timeless silhouettes helped establish Tessa as a staple of Australian design during the 1970s and 1980s.
Today, vintage Tessa furniture remains extremely collectible across Australia, particularly among enthusiasts of mid century and space age interiors. Its pieces continue to feel contemporary decades later, reflecting a period when Australian furniture design confidently developed its own identity while drawing inspiration from the best of European modernism.
Why Bazaa?
We work with trusted couriers and professional movers to ensure your items arrive safely. Smaller pieces typically arrive within 7 days, while larger items are delivered within 7 to 14 days with full tracking provided.
We deliver Australia wide, including regional and remote areas. Every delivery is fully insured for damage or loss, so you’re covered from dispatch to arrival.
Prefer to collect in person? Every purchase includes a free local pickup option from the seller. Enter your postcode above to view delivery options and pricing tailored to your location. You’ll be kept informed at every stage so you know exactly when your item is arriving.
Every transaction is encrypted and protected from checkout to delivery. Your payment is only released to the seller once the item is safely on its way to you.
Each piece on Bazaa is chosen for its quality, design, and originality. We partner with some of the best Australian sellers, curating not just beautiful furniture but also the people behind it. No mass production, just character.
Buying vintage is a smarter and more sustainable way to furnish your space. You’re giving timeless pieces a second life while reducing waste.
All purchases are backed by our Buyer Protection Guarantee. If your item arrives damaged, we’ll make it right with a full refund, a free return, or by covering the cost of repairing it. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our priority.