Utrecht Sofa attributed to Gerrit Thomas Rietveld for Metz and Co., Netherlands, 1960s

So called ‘Utrecht’ sofa designed by Gerrit Rietveld and manufactured by Metz and Co in The Netherlands in 1960. This sofa is a special creation by Gerrit Thomas Rietveld for Metz & Co back in 1935. What makes it unique is that it’s one of the few comfortable seats he ever designed, and it’s also his first upholstered design. The wooden frame was skill-fully crafted by Gerard van den Groenekan, while Dhr. Staphorst took care of the upholstery for Metz & Co. Unfortunately, its production was put on hold due to the war. However, in the early 1950s, Metz & Co reintroduced the sofa along with a matching chair. These sofa’s are extremely rare, and only a handful of them are known to exist today, making them highly sought after by collectors and museums. The sofa has been carefully restored, featuring new ‘BREAK FREE’ upholstery by Carlucci with a beautiful graphical pattern. Interestingly, the sofa’s interior remains original, preserving the characteristic old jute webbing typical of Metz & Co chairs, as well as the intact spring seat bedding. The restoration aimed to maintain authenticity, with only the surface foam and upholstery being replaced while keeping the original inner frame visible. This early Metz & Co version holds significant historical value, representing Rietveld’s talent and Metz & Co’s enduring craftsmanship. It is a true treasure for design enthusiasts with a fascinating story of creativity. Literature; Gerrit Th. Rietveld 1888-1964, Marijke Küper Ida van Zijl, Centraal Museum 1992. Page 175, number 258. The complete Rietveld furniture, Peter Vöge, 010 publischers Rotterdam 1993. Page 96/97, number 157. We have a second one in stock that could make a pair or be reupholtered in a fabric of your choice. Like all our upholstered pieces these can also be newly upholstered to your admiration. Ask our experienced upholstery department for an affordable quote for the item you want customised. We only use the best quality fabrics, foam, and materials for all our items. with the reupholstery we will always keep the originality in mind so the piece doesn’t lose its value and will be ready for years of use again.