The History of Parker Knoll
When it comes to high quality, British made furniture, one of the first brands that always springs to mind is Parker Knoll. Since the start of the business, more than 147 years ago, the company has innovated some of the best furniture technologies and produced some of the most iconic designs in the industry. So how did the Parker Knoll legacy begin?
Royal Beginnings
In 1869, a 24-year-old Shoreditch-born cabinet maker named Frederick Parker set up business creating high-quality British furniture. His work was of such a high standard that it wasn’t long before the Royal family took note of his designs and summoned him to Buckingham Palace to measure King Edward VII for a chair. The King was extremely pleased with his initial prototype and ordered one to be made. Thus, began a long-standing relationship between Parker Knoll and the Victorian gentry which would be the basis on which would last well into the next century.
Demand Increases
The business continued to do well in the early 1900s at which time the business was moved to even bigger premises in High Wycombe. The company received an order from the RMS Aquitania to furnish the Palladian Lounge, which it gladly fulfilled. In 1929, Frederick Parker’s sons took over the running of the business and soon combined forces with an ex-fighter pilot named Willi Knoll. After spending plenty of time sitting in uncomfortable aircraft seats, Knoll had spent some time innovating comfortable furniture and so the resulting partnership between the Parker company and Knoll in the early 1930s led to the introduction of luxury spring furniture.
Strength to Strength
The new Parker Knoll brand was the first to advertise nationally and received great success. They were commissioned to furnish the new BBC headquarters in 1932 and used their factories to assist with the construction of aircraft during World War 2. By the 1950’s, however, a new era of design had descended, and Parker Knoll led the charge with their innovative design and luxury comfort. They were the first to introduce a recliner chair and have continued to impress at design fairs every year since.
Watch Full Timeline:Want to find out more about Parker Knoll furniture? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements. Or shop online now.
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Posted by Laurie Goldsmith
8th April 2019
