New, But Still Unmistakably Alfred
Originally inspired by the effortless charm of a 1970s bucket chair, Alfred now features a 1960s-inspired wood base. Same iconic silhouette, same comfort — just with a warmer, more inviting presence.

You know Alfred. Fully upholstered. Sculpted angles. A seat that makes you stay longer than you planned. When we first introduced Alfred, it quickly became a defining silhouette in our collection. Inspired by the relaxed confidence of the 1970s, it paired generous cushioning with a strong architectural profile—bringing a softer, more residential feel into commercial spaces.
Originally, Alfred stood confidently on a steel base. Now, with the warmth of wood.
Same Alfred—New Era
Meet Alfred Wood — the newest extension of the Alfred Seating Family. While the original Alfred nodded to the ‘70s bucket chair, Alfred Wood subtly shifts the timeline. With the introduction of a solid wood base, the collection taps into the tailored influence of the 1960s — a little more architectural, a little more refined, and undeniably warm.
A Material Evolution
The silhouette remains unmistakable. The pointed profile—often compared to the shape of an open book, still defines the form. The multi-panel upholstered seat and back continue to gently envelop the body, creating a comfortable, intimate sit.
But the solid wood base changes the tone. Steel brought contrast and edge. Wood brings depth and warmth. Same attitude. Different footing.
Designed by Paul James
Industrial designer Paul James designed Alfred — and if his name sounds familiar, it should. He’s also behind Andy Lounge, Bennett, and Hula Seating.
Across each collection, there’s a clear throughline: confident silhouettes, thoughtful proportions, and comfort that holds up in real-world settings. Alfred Wood continues that design language, proving that a small shift in material can meaningfully reshape a piece’s presence.

Comfort Still Leads
Alfred has always been about comfort—real comfort. The kind that feels intentional, not accidental. The multi-panel cushioning supports without overwhelming. The angles feel structured but not severe. It’s polished, but approachable. Alfred Wood carries that same balance into restaurants, bars, hospitality environments, and gathering spaces that lean into natural materials and layered textures. It feels especially at home where millwork, paneling, and warmer finishes take center stage.
Made to Adapt
Designers can still specify up to three fabrics across the multi-panel seat and back—creating contrast, subtle layering, or a cohesive tonal story. The original steel base and the new wood base can now play together, giving you more ways to mix materials while staying true to Alfred’s signature design language. Steel comes in 29 standard powder coat colors, while the wood base adds a warmer touch with 16 standard stains.
Learn more about our standard and custom finish capabilities.
Alfred Wood doesn’t change the design you know — it expands it: a little more warmth, a slightly different era, same unmistakable silhouette. Turns out, Alfred looks just as good in the ’60s as it did in the ’70s.