Designer Focus: Robin Day
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Time to read 2 min
Beginnings and Influence
Celebrated for his use of modern materials and iconic shapes, Robin Day OBE (1915-2010) is one of the most significant furniture designers of the 20th Century. Somewhat a philanthropist, Day believed that modern design could uplift and make the world a better place. This ideology can be seen throughout his furniture designs, still available today and popular in interiors throughout the world.
His story begins in High Wycombe, a town steeped in Britain’s furniture-making tradition. Growing up around the timber yards and workshops, Day was no stranger to the materials and techniques used by the local craftsmen and went on to further develop this knowledge, graduating from Royal College of Art in London.
When World War II broke out, Day leant his creative talent to technical drawing, signwriting and model making. Before returning to his passion of designing furniture, Day established himself in exhibition design - all skills that would inform and shape his later work.
Notable Designs
One of Day’s breakthrough moments came in 1948, when he and Clive Latimer entered the International Low-Cost Furniture Competition run by MoMA. Their plywood storage system won, launching Day into the spotlight.
What followed was a defining partnership with British manufacturer Hille. His Hillestak collection and seating for the Royal Festival Hall placed functional, affordable design at the heart of public life.
At the 1951 Festival of Britain, his RFH Lounge and RFH Dining Chairs were featured in the Homes and Gardens Pavilion - designs so successful they are available today from &Tradition’s collection at Holloways of Ludlow.
Later came the injection-moulded Polypropylene Chair, a landmark in mass production, and the Toro bench seating seen across the London Underground. These designs proved themselves to be functional, long lasting and aesthetic, making him a leading voice in post-war British furniture.
Robert Day’s designs can be seen throughout &Tradition and Case Furniture’s collections. At Holloways of Ludlow, some of our favourites are:
The &Tradition RD3 Daystak Desk. An excellent example of Day’s ability to blend form with function. It has a simple in appearance, with functional details. High quality crafting techniques can be seen throughout.
Case Furniture 675 Chair. A lightweight design with an undeniable mid-century aesthetic. The curved back rest is formed by expertly bending a single piece of plywood – a material that is often used in Day’s designs.
Case Furniture Forum 2+ Seater Sofa. This distinctly contemporary sofa fits in with a variety of interior styles. The chrome legs, hardwood frame and soft seat play off against each other in a pleasing balance.
How to integrate Robin Day pieces into your home
Bringing Robin Day furniture into the home is about balancing utility with clarity of form. Many of his pieces, particularly the RFH, Daystak and 675 chairs work well in dining areas, kitchens, or studies where durability is as important as design. Their clean lines sit comfortably in both period properties and newer spaces.
RFH Lounge Chairs, with their solid wood frames and shaped backs, are an excellent option for reading corners or living rooms. These lightweight, well-proportioned designs are built for everyday use and made to last.
Day’s furniture designs fit seamlessly into mid-century modern, minimalist and retro-futuristic interiors. Their versatility means they also work well with eclectic decor, paired with other styles. When placed with care, Day’s work doesn’t overpower a room; it anchors it, proving his legacy as one of Britain’s most influential furniture designers.
Written by Tomas Dobbins
Tomas is our Store Manager, making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. When he’s not keeping the website in shape, you’ll likely find him at home with headphones on - either deep into a new game or lost in a playlist.