Exploring Innovation in Seating: 50 Chairs Showcase at Christie’s Beverly Hills
By Editor • September 8, 2026 • 2 min read
This September, Christie’s Beverly Hills will transform into a showcase of creativity with its exhibition, "50 Chairs," organized by Basic.Space. The event, running from September 25th to 30th by appointment only, will feature an eclectic mix of seating designs that push the boundaries of traditional furniture.
A Diverse Collection
The exhibition will include iconic pieces alongside contemporary designs that challenge conventional notions of seating. Highlights include a rare calfskin edition of the LCW by Charles and Ray Eames, created in 2002, and a striking hammered-brass chair by Philippe Hiquily from the 1970s, sourced from designer Kelly Wearstler’s collection. Joe Colombo’s Elda Chair, a 1963 design, wraps around its user with a molded-fiberglass shell, embodying both comfort and innovation.
Unique Creations from Modern Designers
Modern interpretations of the chair are also well represented. A standout piece by Rick Owens, the Stag Stool, features a blend of black plywood and natural moose antler, presenting a bold, architectural presence. In contrast, Sam Klemick’s Trumpet Dining Chair showcases a playful form with legs that widen at the base, creating an illusion of sagging, softened wood.
SeungJin Yang’s Lounge Chair 01 – Transparent Blue, which starts with balloons encased in resin, adds a whimsical touch, appearing almost cartoonish with its inflated design. This chair is part of a growing trend towards playful experimentation in furniture design.
The Personal Touch in Design
The exhibition not only highlights the designs themselves but also the stories behind them. Many pieces come from private collectors and designers who have lived with these works. Notable contributions include Eric Wareheim’s Elda Chair and pieces from collectors Giampiero Tagliaferri and Adrien Dewulf. Jesse Lee, CEO of Basic.Space, emphasizes the importance of discovery in their approach, ensuring that the exhibition reflects a broad range of personal collecting habits.
By bringing together 50 distinct interpretations of a familiar object, Christie’s will create a dialogue between past and present designs, inviting visitors to appreciate the evolution of seating in a single, cohesive space.
Source: www.designboom.com
