Pernilla armchair

Pernilla armchair

The Pernilla armchair by Bruno Mathsson is a thoughtful combination of utility and elegance. With a design language that bridges classic and modern styles, this armchair represents a key part of Mathsson’s work in developing ergonomic and visually refined seating.

Pernilla Armchairs

Pernilla armchairs are known for their elegant construction and high level of comfort. The shape is crafted to follow the body’s natural curves, making the armchairs an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed seating position. The construction is based on Bruno Mathsson’s philosophy regarding the importance of reclining chairs for rest and body support, where every curve is carefully designed for optimal pressure relief.

The chair is available in various versions and upholstery options. Classic materials such as webbing, fabric and leather are combined with modern expressions in color and texture. In some variants, the experience is further enhanced with sheepskin, which adds a warm and tactile surface. A professional reupholstery of the Pernilla can vary in cost depending on material choice, where leather and sheepskin offer both extended durability and a more exclusive character. Adding a footstool creates a complete setting that invites longer moments of rest. The combination of polyether in the seat and back with a flexible bentwood frame makes the Pernilla feel both supportive and comfortable.

Pernilla 69

Pernilla 69 is perhaps the most recognized model in the series. Introduced during the 1960s, it has since become a benchmark in Scandinavian furniture design. The bentwood frame gives the armchair its distinct silhouette, while upholstery in sheepskin or leather elevates the overall appearance.

This model combines clean lines with gentle transitions and offers a seating experience that balances function and form. Pernilla 69 is especially appreciated in environments where furniture is expected not only to serve a purpose but also contribute to the room’s visual identity. It suits living rooms, libraries and casual workspaces equally well. Paired with a matching footstool, both comfort and aesthetic appeal are enhanced.

The chair is built for longevity, with each component carefully selected to withstand daily use without losing its shape or feel. Many consider this model one of the most comfortable in Mathsson’s portfolio, thanks to its thoughtful inclination, generous proportions and responsive construction.

Bruno Mathsson Armchair

Bruno Mathsson was a Swedish designer and architect born in 1907 in Värnamo, where he spent most of his life. He designed several homes and studios in his hometown that are still referenced in architectural contexts today. With a clear idea of seating comfort, he combined form and function in a way that offered the body optimal support. His view of furniture as architectural objects rather than mere tools left a lasting impression on the history of design.

Armchairs like Pernilla are strong examples of this approach. By merging innovative materials with traditional craftsmanship, Mathsson created pieces that endure through time. The Eva series also reflects the same approach to seating comfort, where bent wood and flexible materials work together to provide the body with natural support. Many models are still produced today in collaboration with Dux, ensuring a continued high manufacturing standard. One such piece is the Jetson chair, which with its swivel function and high back offers active and relieving seating. It is built on the same ergonomic principles as the Pernilla and remains a popular choice for everyday use.

Design, Comfort and Material Choices

A Mathsson armchair is never a random pick. It is about creating balance between visual lightness and physical presence. Leather adds a sophisticated tone, while sheepskin introduces softness that enhances the overall impression. No matter the material chosen, the focus is always on long-term comfort and visual durability.

The armchair functions just as well as a centerpiece as it does as a complement. The blend of form, function and materials makes these pieces appreciated by architects, interior designers and private collectors alike. Several of the models have become recurring subjects in books on Nordic design, and it’s no coincidence that Bruno Mathsson’s name is often mentioned alongside Scandinavian furniture classics.

If you're looking for a chair that combines heritage with contemporary relevance, the Pernilla is a natural choice.