Category / Ercol Furniture

Ercol furniture, founded by Lucian Ercolani in 1920, became one of Britain’s most influential furniture makers in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1950s through the 1980s. This period marked the company’s transformation into a household name, closely associated with post-war design and modern living.

In the 1950s, Ercol rose to prominence during Britain’s recovery from World War II. The company gained national recognition after winning a major government contract to produce the “Utility Windsor” chair. This design combined traditional craftsmanship with efficient mass production, using steam-bent wood techniques that allowed for strength, elegance, and affordability. The Windsor chair became iconic and helped establish Ercol’s reputation for quality and innovation.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Ercol expanded its range to include entire room sets, reflecting changing lifestyles and the growing popularity of open-plan living. Designs such as the “Golden Dawn” and “Old Colonial” ranges featured light elm wood, clean lines, and a distinctly modern yet timeless aesthetic. The use of solid elm, often sourced from British trees affected by Dutch elm disease, became a defining feature of Ercol furniture during this era.

By the 1980s, Ercol faced increasing competition from cheaper, mass-produced imports. However, it maintained its commitment to craftsmanship and durability. While styles evolved to suit contemporary tastes, the company continued to build on its mid-century legacy.

Overall, the period from the 1950s to the 1980s represents Ercol’s golden age, when it successfully blended traditional woodworking techniques with modern design principles to shape British interiors.

Below is a selection of relevant products from our archive, for current Ercol products in stock please use the search box or browse our shop.