Founded by the visionary Michael Thonet in 1861, TON is a Czech furniture brand celebrated for its innovation in bentwood design and dedication to traditional craftsmanship. What began as a workshop in Bystřice pod Hostýnem—an area rich in woodworking tradition—has evolved into a globally respected name in interiors and hospitality. TON’s strength lies in preserving Thonet’s original wood-bending technique while continuously reinterpreting it for contemporary spaces. Today, its iconic chairs—such as the 14, 18, 20, and 33—remain staples in cafés, restaurants, hotels, and modern homes around the world.

Chair 14: The Café Chair That Changed Everything
Known as the “bistro chair” or simply the “chair of chairs,” the No. 14 is perhaps the most iconic piece in the TON collection—and in furniture history. Designed in 1859 and refined over the years, it represents the first successful industrial product of bentwood furniture, consisting of just six pieces of beechwood, ten screws, and two nuts. Lightweight yet incredibly strong, Chair 14 became a favorite in European cafés, quickly making its way into hospitality venues worldwide.

Today, Chair 14 is as relevant as ever. It comes in a spectrum of finishes, from classic beech and warm walnut to rich black, deep reds, and playful shades like Azure Blue or Saffron. For a softer touch, there’s an upholstered seat or natural cane. Designers love it. Restaurateurs trust it. And in any interior, it adds a whisper of old Europe — familiar, elegant, and full of charm.
Chair 18: A Refined Silhouette for Modern Spaces
Chair No. 18 is a close cousin of Chair 14, but with a slightly more elegant and ergonomic form. Its signature detail is the double-looped backrest that enhances support and introduces a more fluid visual rhythm. This model is especially popular in hospitality settings seeking a more upscale yet approachable aesthetic.

Chair 18 is often seen in boutique restaurants and stylish cafés, especially in warm wood tones like Oak, Walnut, and Stained Ash. It’s available with a plain seat, cane seat, or upholstered cushion, allowing for a broad range of visual and tactile experiences. The chair’s balance of style and functionality has made it a go-to choice for interior designers looking to add subtle distinction without sacrificing heritage charm.

Chair 33: Mid-Century Charm Meets Bentwood Tradition
For those drawn to mid-century modern aesthetics, Chair No. 33 delivers a slightly bolder expression while retaining the bentwood DNA. With its rounded square backrest and more grounded stance, Chair 33 brings a touch of formality without losing the lightness that defines TON’s legacy.

Ideal for dining rooms and upscale hospitality environments, this model lends itself well to darker, more saturated finishes such as Deep Black, Olive Green, or Walnut. Upholstery options—including velvet or leatherette—add to its retro-modern appeal. Though not as ubiquitous as Chairs 14 or 18, Chair 33 is a growing favorite among architects and interior stylists working on boutique projects.

Chair 20: Comfort Meets Craftsmanship
Chair No. 20 takes comfort a step further with a generous upholstered backrest, making it ideal for extended seating scenarios such as hotel dining rooms, lounges, and meeting spaces. It retains the curved elegance of bentwood while offering a plush feel, making it especially appealing for more luxurious environments.

This model shines in muted, refined colors—think Soft Grey, Dusty Rose, or Natural Beech with neutral upholstery tones. Chair 20 is often selected for its balance between visual delicacy and physical comfort, giving it a solid foothold in high-end hospitality design.

A Contemporary Future Built on Tradition
TON’s bentwood chairs are more than just furniture—they’re cultural artifacts reimagined for modern life. With over 160 years of craftsmanship behind each piece, the brand continues to collaborate with leading designers while staying true to Michael Thonet’s original vision. Whether it’s the universally loved No. 14 or the elegant No. 20, TON’s chairs offer enduring design and comfort that adapts beautifully to evolving interior spaces.

Discover TON at Rouse Home
Step into the world of bentwood craftsmanship and explore our full range of TON chairs online. From timeless café staples to contemporary classics, our collection features a variety of styles and finishes to suit every interior. Discover the beauty of each piece, available in an array of colors, woods, and upholstery options — all thoughtfully crafted to elevate any space.