Paul Kafka Dining Chairs – Set of Six (c.1950s)

Designer: Attributed to Paul Kafka

Origin: Sydney, Australia

Era: c.1950s

Materials: Teak frame with upholstered seats in coral velvet

Description

A superb set of six Australian modernist dining chairs, attributed to Paul Kafka, one of Sydney’s foremost post-war furniture designers and cabinetmakers.

Kafka’s work is renowned for its restrained elegance and meticulous craftsmanship — a blend of European modernism and Australian sensibility. This set exemplifies those qualities: finely tapered legs, soft angular armrests, and beautifully sculpted backrests that cradle the sitter in quiet sophistication.

Each chair has original rich coral velvet, pairing perfectly with the warm teak timber. The combination highlights Kafka’s ability to balance bold colour with natural materiality — elegant yet inviting.

Whether used around a teak or walnut dining table or featured as standalone statement chairs, these pieces embody the rare fusion of craft, comfort, and sculptural form that defines Kafka’s legacy in mid-century Australian design. 

Details

• Set of six chairs (including two armchairs)
• Solid teak frames with tapered legs and sculpted back rails
• Coral velvet upholstery with plush foam padding
• Professionally restored, these chairs present beautifully. The upholstery has not been replaced and is utterly perfect. It could of course be reupholstered if desired. 
• Excellent vintage condition, with minimal age-appropriate wear

Matching extension dining table is also available. Listed separately it has some damage to the centre leaf.