Planter’s Chair

The Design

We have retained the essential elements of the original design of the Planter’s Chair. The long sweeping seat merging into the laid back rest. These angles ensure optimum comfort when relaxing back into the chair. Traditionally the front legs were turned and we have retained that element. We have done away with the folding footrests in line with our safari lodge and hotel customer wishes.

The original designs had the seat and back were covered with wicker. This tends to wear quite easily so we made a decision to replace the wicker with tough sail rope that still provides a very comfortable seat but will last indefinitely.

History of the Planter’s Chair

The Planter’s Chair originated in mid nineteenth century in India during the time of the British Raj rule. It was very popular on the tea plantations of south and east India, but soon spread to other parts of Empire, where it adorned the verandas colonial officials and plantation owners. Their inclusion in the ‘Army and Navy’ catalogue of 1907 under ‘Barrack Furniture and Camp Equipment’ ensured that they were exported to British Colonies around the world. They were also known as Plantation Chairs.

Material

We use two very fine African hardwoods to build our Planter’s Chair. Zambezi Teak is exceptionally hard and attractive. It has a beautiful rich red brown colour and varied grain. The tough nature of Zambezi Teak results in furniture of exceptional durability. African Mahogany, also known as chamfuti locally,  has a more uniform but equally compelling red-brown colour. Mahogany is the timber traditionally used to build Campaign Furniture. You may prefer mahogany for true authenticity!

Uses

Every veranda in the land should have a brace of Planter’s chairs at the very least. They add great atmosphere and comfort to safari lodges and upmarket hotels. An oiled finish is ideal if you wish to leave your chairs out of doors. The Planter’s chair is an excellent alternative to the Mzilikazi or Zambezi Morris Chairs.