Jean Prouve Cite Lounge Chair Vitra

Designer & History

• Designed by Jean Prouvé around 1930 / 1931.

• Originally made for a competition to furnish the student halls of Nancy’s Cité Universitaire. 

• Prouvé later used the chair in his own living room. Frame / Structure

• Made of bent sheet steel, powder-coated (smooth finish). 

• Runs on “runners” (rocker-like base) giving it a slightly dynamic, slanted posture. Armrests

• Broad leather belts wrap around the frame to serve as armrests.

• The leather strap is typically natural-colored (on many editions). 

Seat / Back Upholstery

• Continuous one-piece cover for seat & back.

• Options: fabric or premium leather. 

• Neck cushion: polyurethane foam, height-adjustable. 

Dimensions

• Width: ~ 680 mm (≈ 26.75 in) Depth: ~ 950 mm (≈ 37.5 in) 

• Height: ~ 840 mm (≈ 33 in) 

• Seat height: 335 mm (but ~210 mm under load per EN standard)

Glides / Feet

• Comes with plastic glides for carpet floors.

• Optionally, felt glides available for hard floors. 

Finish / Color Options

• Powder-coated frame colors: Japanese Red, Deep Black, Ecru (Prouvé Blanc Colombe), Gris Vermeer, Bleu Dynastie, Ble Vert, Bleu Marcoule. 

• Leather: typically smooth, premium cowhide; multiple color options. Comfort / Feel

• Generous proportions + high backrest make it very comfortable for lounging. 

• The leather straps for arms add both an industrial touch and functional flexibility + comfort.

• Use / Context

  • Suitable for residential settings, but also works well in waiting areas, lounges, or hospitality spaces. 

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