Set B 9

DesignMarcel Breuer, 1925/26

Range B 9

The bentwood technique perfected by Michael Thonet was a source of inspiration for Marcel Breuer’s experiments with bent tubular steel. The four-piece set tables B 9 developed out of this idea. The small tables can be used in diversified ways – as side tables in seating groups, as practical storage surfaces or as the perfect place for a vase with fresh flowers. After using the tables, they can be easily pushed beneath one another in a space-saving way. The special feature of this range is its functional simplicity – the set tables consist only of chrome-plated, bent tubular steel and rectangular panels.

During his time at the Bauhaus, Marcel Breuer experimented with steel and tubular steel, a new and promising material for furniture. The close interchange with the aircraft manufacturer Junkers in Dessau accelerated the development process. His first designs included the set tables B 9 and various shelves and pieces of side furniture. The Gebrüder T 1819 card catalogue from 1930/31 already included the complete product range. Breuer originally designed the B 9 for the cafeteria of the Bauhaus building in Dessau. The small, versatile table was also used in Walter Gropius’ student’s apartments and Master Houses.

B 9 a-d: Side tables or stool in four different sizes, available individually or as a set. B 9 d/1 with additional shelf. Frames chrome-plated or colour-lacquered tubular steel, wood parts available in stained beech and ash or lacquered. Also available in “Pure Materials” versions. With “GTProtect” surface for the frames and glass panels (version “All Seasons”) usable indoors and outdoors.

Versions

Show all

Set B 9

set B9

B 9 a

side and nesting table

B 9 b

side and nesting table

B 9 c

side and nesting table

Show details

Marcel Breuer

Marcel Breuer (1902–1981) Born in Pécs, Hungary, Marcel Breuer studied at the Staatliches Bauhaus Weimar from 1920 to 1924. After a short stay in Paris, he took over the management of the joiner’s workshop at the Bauhaus from 1925 to 1928, which had meanwhile moved to Dessau. During this time, he was strongly influenced by constructivism and De Stijl and developed a few trend setting tubular steel furniture designs. In 1928, Breuer went to Berlin and dedicated himself mainly to the field of interior design. Starting in 1932 he worked on several aluminium furniture designs in Switzerland. In 1935 Breuer moved to London, where he worked as an architect. In 1937 he was granted a professorship for architecture at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Later, he opened an architectural office there together with Walter Gropius. In 1946 Breuer founded his own studio in New York and realized numerous designs in Europe and the United States. He is considered one of the most important architects and designers of modernism.

Materials and Surfaces

The sensitive selection of the surfaces is decisive for the character of any piece of furniture. Therefore, we offer an almost limitless range of materials, allowing for an individual and special touch for each piece. Create your personal chair or table by choosing from our comprehensive collection of materials for the frame and upholstery. Please note that the materials listed here only represent a small selection of our production possibilities. Our specialist trade partner near you will be happy to offer advice.