It isn’t hard to understand why fans of classic design would want to find the best replica Hans Wegner shell chair on the market.
Imbued with a unique design, it’s not only a beautiful chair, but an iconic piece that’s comfortable, classic and timeless.
But while it’s still popular today, it was actually somewhat alienating when it was first released in 1963.
Designed by one of the most prolific Scandinavian designers, Hans J. Wegner, the distinctive curvature and wing-like seat of the famous original shell chair offered a whimsical seating solution that was too edgy for some.
(Today names like Wegner and Arne Jacobsen are lauded for their contributions to Danish design, but in the ’60s their sense of adventure was a little too design-y for some.)
Eventually people realized that in addition to looking incredible, its high quality padded seat cushions and unique position actually make it an incredibly comfortable chair that cradles and supports the human body.
It took its rightful place as one of the most famous designs of the 20th century when the modern shell chair went into mass production in the 1990s, and you can still get the iconic chairs from the Carl Hansen company.
The only downside? At more than $3,000, the original chairs cost more than most of us spend on rent each month.
Fortunately, today there are a number of brands offering shell lounge chair replicas that look just as good as the original design, but come at a much more affordable price.
To help you find one that fits your budget, in this post we’ve rounded up some of the best replica shell chairs on the market.
The (Absolute) Best Hans Wegner Shell Chair Reproductions
Breaking Down the Best CH07 Shell Chair Replicas on the Market
Overall Best Shell Chair Replica ↓
Kardiel Leather Replica Shell Chair
Features:
- 5 Stars
- 9 Reviews
- Available in 11 different color and fabric combos
- Width 36.2″ x Depth 29.5″ x Height 29.5″
Advantages:
This high-quality reproduction from Kardiel (quite easily) earns first place because it perfectly combines the timeless design of the classic piece with high-quality materials and an affordable price tag.
It’s also one of the most versatile furniture pieces on the list because Kardiel allows you to create custom orders by choosing from 11 varieties of fabric and colors, four of which are made from 100% genuine Italian leather upholstery.
The curved form of the seating shell is made from a sturdy walnut plywood frame, which combines with the high grade padded cushion for a statement piece that’s almost as eye-catching as the original.
But the best part might be the price tag:
While it closely mimics the style and overall quality of the original, it costs less than a third of the price.
As a result, it’s not only the overall best shell chair replica on the market, but the best bang for your buck, too.
Promising Review:
I feel like a rockstar when I sit in these chairs and sip a craft cocktail – and so do my guests.
They are comfortable and so very stylish!
– Elizabeth G.
Runner-Up ↓
Homary Modern Tripod Black Leather Lounge Chair
Rating:
- 4.9 Stars
- 90 Reviews
Advantages:
A close runner up to the Kardiel model above, this replica from Homary sports the same arched legs and tripod wooden frame that make the original such a unique and striking piece of furniture.
The faux leather upholstery is available in three colors, which isn’t quite as many options as the Kardiel model above, but enough to let you choose the right look for your home.
Plus, Homary offers a 30-day return window.
That makes buying furniture online a more comforting experience, and helps eliminate the fear of buyer’s remorse that a lot of people have when buying living room chairs online.
Promising Review:
Great design and value for the money. It is very sturdy, the quality of the finish is great.
Adds great design without too much “weight” in a room. Nothing bad I can say about this purchase.
– Erica F.
Best of the Rest
While the Kardiel and Homary models above offer both the best value and most loyal reproduction of Wegner’s original shell chair, they’re not the only ones available online.
Each of the chairs below offer a range of styles, colors and price points, and could make for a perfect addition to any stylish home.
Let’s Make Memories Shell Living Room Chair
Rating:
- 4 Stars
- 1 Reviews
Promising Review:
The chair feels sturdy, looks good – the orange cushions really pop – and is very comfy to sit in…
All in all, I’m pretty pleased with the purchase and the price seems OK considering that anything other than the black or beige knock-off versions of the Hans Wegner shell chair are hard to find.
– Holger Elischberger
BELLEZE Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair
Rating:
- 4.6 Stars
- 163 Reviews
Promising Review:
The quality of the chair is amazing. My significant other is very particular about materials and she even was impressed at the build quality for the price.
We liked it so much we ordered a second one!
– Ashwin
Boraam Industries Shell Side Chair
Rating:
- 4 Stars
- 6 Reviews
Promising Review:
good quality chair. I always wanted to buy this chair but it was too expensive.
The price is very good for an iconic mid century design.
– Salah E.
Aron Living Arch Shell Chair in White Leather
Aron Living Arch Shell Chair in Black Leather
Modern Fabric Shell Wing Chair
Rating:
- 4 Stars
- 4 Reviews
Promising Review:
Awesome chairs that add a great style to any room, I would definitely recommend them and buy again. Good value as well.
– Victoria L.
Armless Designer Tri Leg Hardwood Chair
Designer Plywood Dark Wood Low Lounge Shell Chair
Rating:
- 4.5 Stars
- 2 Reviews
Promising Review:
This is a really cute little chair. Great for extra seating.
Love the look. Looks just like the photo. Would buy again.
– 303olive
Did you know…?
The shell chair (sometimes called the smiling chair) is just one of the many contributions Hans J Wegner made to living room furniture and lounge areas.
Considered the master of the chair, Wegner designed more than 500 unique chairs, including the wishbone chair, the peacock chair and many more,with more than 100 of them going into mass production.
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The Recap ↓
Summary
This high-quality reproduction from Kardiel (quite easily) earns first place because it perfectly combines the timeless design of the classic piece with high-quality materials and an affordable price tag.
