Barcelona Chair Original vs Fake
When it comes to classic furniture pieces, few can rival the iconic Barcelona Chair designed by famed architects Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Lilly Reich in 1929.
This chair has been a symbol of modern design for almost a century, and for good reason – its minimalist aesthetic, comfortable seating and high-quality construction make it a timeless piece.
But when it comes to the Barcelona Chair, there’s a big difference between the original and the replicas that are widely available. If you’re looking to purchase a Barcelona Chair, it’s important to know the difference between the two so that you can make an informed decision.
Here, we’ll explore the differences between the Barcelona Chair Original vs Fake and discuss the pros and cons of each.
Differences between Barcelona Chair Original vs Fake

Material
The original Barcelona Chair was designed with a combination of steel and leather. The frame was made of chrome-plated steel, while the seat, back, and armrests were upholstered in high-quality leather. The leather was usually black or brown in color and was very durable, making it suitable for frequent use.
Replica Barcelona Chairs, on the other hand, are usually made of lesser-quality materials such as chrome-plated steel and synthetic leather. Synthetic leather is much less durable than the original leather, so it won’t last as long.
Size
The original Barcelona Chair was designed to be slightly larger than most chairs, measuring 29.5 inches wide and 33.5 inches deep. This makes it a perfect fit for a variety of spaces, from living rooms to offices.
Replica Barcelona Chairs, however, are often made in a variety of sizes. While some replicas are made in the exact same size as the original, others may be slightly larger or smaller. This is important to consider if you’re looking for a chair that will fit into a specific space.
Features
The original Barcelona Chair was designed with a wide array of features, including adjustable armrests, a reclining backrest, and a padded seat. These features were designed to provide optimal comfort and support, making it a great choice for long periods of sitting.
Replica Barcelona Chairs, on the other hand, may not have all of the features found in the original. Some replicas may have adjustable armrests and a reclining backrest, while others may not. This is important to consider if you’re looking for a chair with specific features.
Price
The original Barcelona Chair is an expensive piece of furniture, with prices ranging from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. This is due to the high-end materials and construction used to create this iconic piece.
Replica Barcelona Chairs, however, are much more affordable. Prices for replicas range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size, features, and material used.
Conclusion
When it comes to the Barcelona Chair, there’s a big difference between the original and the replicas. The original is made with high-end materials and features, while the replicas are usually made with lesser-quality materials and may not have all of the features found in the original. Additionally, the original is much more expensive than the replicas, so it’s important to consider your budget when making a decision.