Original or Reproduction?

Say No To Fakes

The Cost of Replica Furniture on the Design Industry

In recent times, the replica furniture industry has broadened access to designer-looking furniture to the general public, allowing those on lower incomes to enjoy the design aesthetic that was previously enjoyed by the wealthy.

This industry seems to have taken off in recent years due to a much more style-savvy general public who want to gain a particular standard of decorating in their homes, but don't always have the budget to allow for the purchase of original pieces.

Whole businesses have dedicated themselves to solely selling a wide range of reproduction furniture and decorating items.

Source

Apart from taking away income from the original designers who worked hard on their furniture creations, the sub-standard level of workmanship of these replicas means that in the reasonably near future, they will most likely end up in landfill.

An original piece of furniture is designed to be of superior quality, craftsmanship, and comfort, with only the best and most durable materials being used in their manufacture.  A high level of care and attention to detail is taken throughout the whole process, and as a consequence these pieces are built to last - they can be handed down through generations for maximum use and enjoyment.

Let's Compare:

Here's an example of a Hans Wegner Wishbone Chair:

The original is only made by Carl Hansen & Son.

Answer: A

The original chair's toprail is made from one single piece of steam-bent timber, while the replica consists of several pieces joined together.

The seat of the original is made from highly durable paper cord and is of a uniform weave, whereas the replica is made from cheap synthetic or nylon cord.

The timber of the original is made from high quality sustainable Danish timbers with an even colour finish with no knots, while the replica has an uneven finish and knots visible.

If you don't see a label, or it doesn't look quite right, buyer beware!

Above images above from nordicdesign.ca

The price differences are also telling - the old adage 'you get what you pay for' certainly rings true here.

The Verdict

So, suffice to say this is just one example of many original designer pieces that are now being reproduced.

The good news is that real design doesn't have to cost the earth. 

Original Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair

If your budget doesn't quite extend to an original Arne Jacobsen Egg Chair, there are many other accessible and affordable designs out there if you just take the time to do a little research.  Even if it means saving up for that bit longer, it will pay dividends in the long run to know you have a piece that is of superior quality, and be able to enjoy and appreciate it for the rest of your years on this planet.

In an interesting twist, Matt Blatt (an Australian business founded on replica furniture and accessories), has recently started stocking a range of original designer furniture, lighting, homewares and accessories.  Click here to see their original designer range.