The Cesca Story
Our journey as The Thrifty Duo began with a passion for mid-century furniture and a dream to make a mark in the industry. We were particularly captivated by the Cesca chair, designed by Marcel Breuer in 1928. Breuer's vision took inspiration from the simple elegance of a bicycle, aiming to create a chair that would give the sensation of floating in mid-air. This timeless piece perfectly marries modernist principles with classic craftsmanship, featuring a cantilevered tubular steel frame and a woven cane seat and backrest that epitomise both durability and elegance.
Despite our admiration for the Cesca chair, we faced a significant challenge: the high demand far exceeded the supply. The name "Cesca" is trademarked by Knoll, but the chair itself was never patented by Breuer, resulting in numerous replicas that failed to capture the original's essence. Moreover, there were no local manufacturers in South Africa producing authentic versions of this iconic design.
Determined to address this gap, we envisioned creating a uniquely South African version of the Cesca chair. Our goal was to support the local economy and uphold Breuer's vision while ensuring high-quality standards. We embarked on extensive research, held countless meetings with international stakeholders, and delved into the history and construction of the Cesca chair.
Our dream was to make the Cesca accessible to the South African market. We learned to build what we could in-house and partnered with local manufacturers for components we couldn’t produce ourselves. After many trials and errors, we are thrilled to introduce The Thrifty Duo's Cesca-Inspired chair.
Our chair features three key elements: the frame, seat, and backrest. The frame is made from 25mm tubular mild steel with a thickness of 2.5mm, slightly thicker than most replicas for added durability and strength, with a custom powder-coated finish that resists chipping and rust, plus customisable color options. The D-shaped seat is crafted from strong blonde beech wood, designed with a groove for cane webbing, secured using traditional woodworking techniques, enhancing its lightness and aligning with Breuer's vision. The uniquely curved backrest adds comfort and elegance, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal across all variants.
Our Cesca-Inspired chair is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, history, and our commitment to quality. It embodies the perfect blend of traditional techniques and modern aesthetics, making it a standout piece in any setting.