Tuolit

Tuolit are a broad category of seating furniture designed to support a person while seated. In Finnish, tuoli is the word for chair and tuolit is its plural. A typical chair has a seat, a backrest, and legs; many designs include armrests, upholstery, or cushions. Materials range from wood and metal to plastic and textile. The design often prioritizes comfort, stability, and ergonomics for daily use.

Common types include ruokatuoli (dining chair), toimistotuoli (office chair), nojatuoli (armchair), and korkea tuoli (bar stool). Styles vary from simple wooden dining chairs to ergonomic executive chairs and sculptural modern pieces. In public spaces, tuolit are selected for durability and ease of maintenance, with cushions and upholstery chosen for wear resistance and comfort.

Historically, chairs appeared in ancient civilizations and evolved through medieval and Renaissance periods. The industrial era enabled mass production, expanding variety and affordability. In modern design, tuolit emphasize function, lightweight construction, and sometimes expressiveness through sculptural forms and materials.

Finland has a notable chair design tradition. Designers such as Alvar Aalto produced iconic pieces—Stool 60 and the Paimio Chair—often characterized by warm wood, simple geometry, and comfort. The Artek company helped popularize Finnish chair design worldwide, influencing contemporary approaches to sustainability and minimalism.

Maintenance and care focus on durability. Regular cleaning, protection of wooden surfaces from moisture, and appropriate cleaning of upholstery extend a chair’s life. Replacing worn components or cushions can significantly extend usability and maintain comfort.