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Pair of Tessa Swivel Armchairs – Rare Custom Pair of T21s
A true standout and something we’ve never come across before. This rare pair sits somewhere between the classic Tessa Delmont and the T21, featuring the same beautiful sculptural lines and smooth 360° swivel action, but with a unique custom touch. The frames show off stunning exposed Blackwood edges that add real character and desirability, while the seats are upholstered in a funky retro floral with a warm earthy olive-green colour that wraps around the base.
The upholstery is the real show-stopper. It’s a richly detailed 1970s floral patchwork in soft earthy tones — dusty rose, soft sage, warm terracotta and cream — with botanical motifs of leaves, berries and abstract blocks that feel both playful and sophisticated. The seat platforms are wrapped in a solid earthy olive-green fabric that grounds the whole design beautifully. It’s the kind of fabric that photographs incredibly well and brings instant warmth and personality to a space.
Both chairs have been fitted with brand-new webbing and they swivel freely and smoothly. They present in good vintage condition with some general wear and tear consistent with their age — nothing that detracts from their overall appeal. These are becoming harder and harder to source, so we’re genuinely excited to be sharing this set.
This is a preview listing — more photos to come once fully staged.
Condition: Good vintage condition with some general wear and tear. New webbing fitted. Both chairs swivel perfectly. Upholstery and frames present well for their age.
Priced to reflect their rarity and vintage status.
Materials: Funky floral fabric with earthy olive-green base wrap over solid Blackwood frames with exposed edge detailing.
Dimensions (each): To be confirmed once staged (typical Tessa proportions — approximately 68–72 cm wide).
Brand & Designer
Tessa
Color
Multicolour
Style
Mid-Century Modern
Material
Other Wood
Condition
Good
Dimensions (cm)
100.0W x 100.0D x 100.0H
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.
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