JS . THONET: S 411 lounge chairs

A dynamic design with sculptural lightness 

The S 411 features a distinctive curved s-shaped tubular steel frame that sweeps all the way through to the armrest coverings which resemble skids or skate blades. “The chair’s lines are remarkably dynamic, creating a deliberate contrast with the luxuriantly cushioned leather seat and backrest,” explains Jil Sander. “The design’s rejection of sharp angles has created a piece that exudes opulence.” 

The chair’s combination of high-quality sprung upholstery and lithe cantilever design results in exceptional seating comfort. It is complemented by a matching S 411 H footstool, which replicates the chair’s curved lines. As a set, the two pieces form a horizontal unit, perfect for relaxed contemplation.

Traditional substance with a contemporary finish

The S 411 is a Thonet factory design that dates back to 1932 and was regarded as innovative in its day. The early tubular steel furniture of the 1920s was rarely upholstered. The S 411, however, heralded a move to comfortable, generously cushioned armchairs and sofas, which appeared in the Thonet range from the mid-1930s onwards. Its design reflects the principles of the Bauhaus designers and is a characteristic representation of its time. 

The sweeping curves of the frame mimic the shape of the seated human body and, for Jil Sander, are reminiscent of the depictions of movement in Italian Futurism. “At the same time, the chair appears to defy gravity, in a spirit of constructivism, as if floating freely in space,” explains Sander, adding: “I wanted to achieve this weightlessness without the glitz of chrome, grounding the S 411.”

Purity and precision of execution

To ensure that all of the design’s lines are consistently minimalist and sleek, Jil Sander has developed a special type of upholstery seam for her take on the S 411. The cushions are fully encased in leather, with piping on the back of the chair. Minimal seams and precisely stitched corners lend the armchair a serene, monolithic appearance while also highlighting its precise craftsmanship.

Two lines: SERIOUS and NORDIC

As with the other pieces in the collection, the S 411 armchair is also available in the two very distinct lines, SERIOUS and NORDIC. For the SERIOUS version of the chair, the tubular steel frame has been given a smoked glossy titanium finish; the armrest coverings come with a high-gloss finish in the collection colours graphite black, graphite ruby red, graphite green or graphite blue. Leather upholstery in matching shades adds to the luxurious feel of this series. Meanwhile, the lighter coloured NORDIC line features a matt nickel silver finish with a golden shimmer for the frame and white pigmented oak armrest coverings. The leather upholstery is available in light caramel, burnt walnut or alabaster white. These tones lend the armchair warmth and a deliberately understated look.

The JS . THONET collection: shared values

The collaboration between Jil Sander and Thonet is based on a shared understanding of timeless design, quality materials and precise craftsmanship. “Jil Sander’s fashion designs have always been synonymous with understated, elegant luxury – timeless pieces to last a lifetime, just like furniture from Thonet,” adds Norbert Ruf, Creative Director at Thonet. “Our aim is to create lasting value with our products.” This approach shapes the entire JS . THONET collection, which currently includes the S 64 and S 32 cantilever chairs, the S 1070 table, the S 411 armchair and footstool and the B 97 sidetable. All of these products are available in both the SERIOUS and the NORDIC lines. 

The luxury of the JS . THONET collection is not found in how it carries itself but in the exceptional quality of the materials, attention to detail and the superior craftsmanship. Their absolute timelessness and lasting value make these quality designs true investment pieces. As an exclusive detail of the signature collection, all products also feature a beautifully engraved “JS . THONET” inscription on the tubular steel frame, highlighting the premium value and authenticity of each piece. 

In her design approach, Jil Sander sees herself as closely aligned with the Bauhaus philosophy and with Marcel Breuer in particular. “It was important to Marcel Breuer to combine industrial techniques and components with attractive, high-quality traditional materials such as leather, wood and tubular steel. He strove to reconcile avant-garde aesthetics with an appreciation for comfort. This approach showed foresight and makes all the difference on the market today.” Like Breuer, Jil Sander also attaches great importance to comfort, precise workmanship and intuitive usability for modern lifestyles. This interplay of industrial design and warm, tactile materials is the artistic foundation of the JS . THONET collection.