Created to be adaptable, light and strong, the Pyramid Benches are the last word in cutout sheet steel construction.
Originally created by Wim Rietveld while working at Ahrend in the 1950s, the collection has been relaunched by HAY together with Ahrend. When initially launched in the ‘50s, it was regarded as a triumph in its innovative use of sheet steel, giving new direction for use in organically shaped products. Today, both as individual pieces and as a collection, it is notable for its sparing use of materials, simplistic construction and for being light enough to move around. These lasting designs manifest functional excellence and aesthetical lightness that have been proved in real environments over several generations. The bench’s light, stackable design and hardwearing quality make it suitable for being used in educational institutions and corporate environments.
Wim Rietveld
Dutch-born Wim Rietveld (1924-1985) was an industrial furniture designer. He studied Industrial Design at The Hague Academy in 1950, before becoming head of design at Gispen in 1953. In 1958, he started working at De Cirkel, a manufacturer of steel furniture that had merged with the Ahrend group in 1939. Here he met Friso Kramer, and together they developed a number of iconic design collaborations, including the Result Chair in 1958. Rietveld also designed the Pyramid Tables and Chairs for Ahrend in 1960.
Rietveld was known for his functionalist chairs, tables and storage systems, but he also designed agricultural machinery, boats and trains.
Alongside his design work, Wim Rietveld also lectured at the Royal Academy and the Technical University in Delft. Together with Ahrend, HAY has reproduced the Result Chair and Pyramid Table series.
Danish inspired furniture and accessories for modern living