Knoll Tulip Chair vs. Amazon Dupes: Which One to Buy in 2025?
The Tulip Chair, originally designed in 1958 by the legendary Eero Saarinen for Knoll Studio, remains a timeless piece of mid-century modern design. Known for its sculptural silhouette and single pedestal base, the chair is a statement of simplicity and innovation. But with the original model costing over £1,100 and delivery taking up to 12 weeks, many shoppers today are exploring more affordable alternatives from retailers like Amazon.
In this article, we compare the original Knoll Tulip Chair to the Fabulaxe Tulip Chair from Amazon and help you decide which fits your needs, style, and budget best. We’ll cover everything from material quality to pricing, availability, and whether it’s worth investing in the original designer version or opting for a lookalike.
What Makes the Knoll Tulip Chair Iconic?
- Designer Pedigree: Eero Saarinen’s original design aimed to eliminate the “ugly, confusing, unrestful world” under tables and chairs. The result was a sleek, pedestal-based chair that stands out for its beauty and function.
- Material: Molded fiberglass-reinforced plastic with an aluminum pedestal base finished in Rilsan coating for scratch resistance.
- Fabric Options: Includes Knoll Hopsack, Cato, Kvadrat Tonus, Divina 3, and Velvet—offering high-end upholstery choices for varied design preferences.
- Swivel Base: Offers mobility and comfort, designed with ergonomic attention to detail.
- Timeless Style: Seamlessly fits into contemporary, Scandinavian, or modernist homes.
The chair is still manufactured today with the same care and materials, proving its legacy.
Price: £1,193 to £1,404 — made to order, with a delivery time of approx. 12 weeks. Custom finishes and upholstery can further extend delivery times.
The Budget Alternative: Fabulaxe Tulip Chair on Amazon
For those who love the Tulip Chair aesthetic but not the price tag, Amazon’s Fabulaxe model is an appealing dupe.
- Material: Reinforced white plastic seat with a white-coated iron base—lighter and less premium than the original.
- Dimensions: 22.5″ D x 19.25″ W x 30.75″ H
- Colors: Gray, Red, White options available for diverse room palettes.
- Cushion: Grey cushioned seat made with high-density sponge for added comfort.
- Functionality: 360-degree swivel and lightweight structure make it perfect for flexible living spaces.
- Assembly: Quick and easy setup with all hardware included in the box.
Price: Starting at $138 (single), $283 (set of 2) — ships quickly with Amazon Prime, a major advantage over the long lead times of designer furniture.
Knoll vs. Amazon Dupe: Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | Knoll Tulip Chair | Fabulaxe Tulip Chair (Amazon) |
|---|---|---|
| Designer | Eero Saarinen | Generic Mid-Century Replica |
| Material | Fiberglass, Aluminum | Plastic, Iron |
| Upholstery | Kvadrat, Hopsack, Mohair | Padded Polypropylene |
| Swivel Function | Yes | Yes |
| Price (Per Chair) | £1,193+ | $138 – $283 |
| Availability | Made to order (12 weeks) | Amazon Prime shipping (2–4 days) |
| Assembly Required | No | Yes |
| Design Authenticity | 100% Original | Inspired Replica |
Which Rooms Work Best for Tulip Chairs?
Tulip Chairs are versatile, whether you go with the designer original or a dupe. Here’s how you can style them:
- Dining Rooms: Use a set of Tulip Chairs around a round or oval table for an iconic mid-century look.
- Home Offices: The swivel base makes it functional and stylish for desk work.
- Kitchen Bars: Pair the stool-height versions with islands or counters.
- Vanity Corners: Add a glamorous touch to a bedroom or bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Knoll Tulip Chair worth the price?
Yes, if you’re looking for a timeless investment in authentic mid-century design. It’s ideal for design enthusiasts or upscale interiors.
Can I get the same look for less?
Absolutely. The Amazon versions offer the visual appeal at a significantly reduced cost, though they compromise on materials and heritage.
Is the Amazon Tulip Chair good for everyday use?
Yes. It’s durable for light-to-moderate use and works well in offices, kitchens, and casual dining spaces.
Are the Knoll chairs customizable?
Yes, you can choose from a wide variety of fabrics and finishes. Fabric swatches are recommended for accurate selection.
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?
If you value authentic design, top-tier materials, and investment furniture, the Knoll Tulip Chair is unmatched. Its legacy, materials, and design pedigree make it a collector’s piece. However, if you’re decorating on a budget or want a quick shipping option that looks the part, Amazon’s Fabulaxe chair is an excellent alternative.
Both chairs bring the classic tulip shape into your home. The difference lies in how much value you place on design authenticity versus practicality and budget.
🌐 Request Fabric Swatches from Knoll Studio
Table of Contents
