Thonet | The Thonet Tradition

For 15 years Thonet & Company NZ have been the exclusive suppliers in New Zealand of the classic Thonet European Bentwood Collection. We are proud to be associated with the innovation and tradition of Michael Thonet.

The bentwood furniture available to today’s users is manufactured to the exacting specifications of Michael Thonet’s unique and original 19^th century designs. To most, Bentwood stands as the shining example of what can be achieved through design. Its form both expresses and symbolises the manufacturing process that lies behind it. Technically simple, it was the embodiment of the principles of mass production: inexpensive to manufacture, transportable in large quantities and, strong and durable.

Before each chair reaches our shores, they are individually assembled to check their overall appearance and condition in one of the original Polish factories. No two Bentwood’s are the same and each chair forms its’ personal integrity right from the beginning.

Once approved, they are unassembled and each component is given a unique code which relates to that chair only. Each component is then hand wrapped with paper and string and packed into crates. Using this method each m3 crate can hold up to 65 chairs!

From the day each shipment arrives into NZ from Poland, the process of unpacking, storing, assembling, and shipping off to our clients involves very unique steps. Following these unique steps reflects our passion and continued commitment to the history and future of the Thonet tradition.

Arriving into our factory in Wellington, NZ, the unpacking ritual begins…

… using the unique codes, the chair components are reunited and reassembled ensuring the original factories match will guarantee it’s strength and longevity…

…grooming and finishing touches are applied, labelled, stacked and ready for despatch…

…the authentic No.18 Chair first put into production in 1876 has become one of the world’s most well recognised chairs since the 19^th century…

… reaching it’s final destination the unmistakable No.18 takes centre stage and sets the tone for a classic dining experience.