Iconic fashion designer Coco Chanel’s declaration that “fashion fades; style is eternal” holds true in many cases, especially when it comes to design. An outstanding example of classic and timeless furniture design is the Basket Chair conceptualized by Swiss designer Gian Franco Legler more than half a century ago, in 1951, for an Italian restaurant called The Basket.

It was a large hit in the design world, garnering acclaim not only in Italy, but also in Germany, in Legler’s native Switzerland, and in the United States. In 1953 the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City bestowed its Good Design Award to Legler for his creation.

Legler’s Basket Chairs have a steel tubing frame with a black powder coating or finish. The back and seat are made from natural, hand-woven rattan, which provides a degree of comfort especially in hot and humid weather because it “breathes,” allowing for air circulation between the chair and its user. Additional comfort features are its ergonomic design, with its slightly curved backrest and seat.

Since the chairs are lightweight and stackable and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, they can serve as cafe chairs, bistro area chairs, or chairs for similar establishments that call for casual seating options that are easy to maintain and store. I think the rattan seat and its overall appearance makes the Legler Basket Chair ideal for just sitting comfortably in a cafe or bistro, passing the time alone or with friends while doing something laid back like drinking coffee or eating a croissant while reading the paper or having a conversation. Even if a dining establishment were located in a country with cold weather, the chair’s design and materials - reminiscent of a tropical climate - would add a warm and comfortable glow to a room’s atmosphere.