With the F500 series, Geoffrey D. Harcourt RDI introduced a new perspective on lounging in the 1960s: informal, intuitive, and attentive to the human body. The inspiration was simple yet significant: his girlfriend often sat cross-legged—a relaxed, feminine position that inspired him to design an armchair that adapts, not imposes.
The F500 embodies this approach. The wide, inviting seat shell accommodates a variety of seating positions without compromising support and comfort. The sculptural shape rests on a swiveling metal base, giving the design its light, modern character.
The F587 and F588 distinguish themselves within the F500 series with their buttoned seats, where the buttons—primarily in leather—create a refined and striking detail. This buttoning adds an understated elegance and gives the armchair a subtle, professional character, beautifully contrasting with the soft, inviting contours. As with other versions of the F500 series, these models are also available with a high or low seat. The choice between a swivel disc base or a cross base allows the armchair to be tailored to a variety of interiors, without compromising comfort or character.
What began as a personal observation has grown into an internationally beloved series of armchairs. The F500 series is appreciated worldwide for its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with new interiors and generations. A design that, like the best design classics, retains its relevance – then, now, and in the future.
