Broyhill Brasilia
The Brasilia Connection specializes in vintage pieces, hardware, even upholstery. Here’s what they say about the history of the line:
The Brasilia line by Broyhill was created in 1962. The signature lines and waves of Brasilia furniture were inspired by the distinct architecture of the city of Brasilia, the capital of Brazil. The city of Brasilia was planned and developed between 1956 and 1960. When viewed from above, the city’s shape resembles a plane or bird, which is mimicked on much of Broyhill’s original fabric and tiles. Most of the city’s architecture was the vision of a man named Oscar Niemeyer. Some of his most notable works are the Palacio de Alvorada and the Cathedral of Brasilia. These both feature clean lines and simple, modern design. What stands out most about the architecture is the use of hyperboloid structures, as in the cathedral and it’s parabolic columns, which are said to represent two hands moving upwards towards heaven. This particular building is one of Brasilia’s most recognizable attractions, due to its unique design and grand scale. When viewing the architecture of Brasilia, it is clear to see the inspiration in the design of the Broyhill Brasilia line of furniture. This line was first featured at the Seattle World’s Fair in 1962 representing the city of Brasilia. These unique pieces were created throughout the 1960’s in various forms.
- A pdf of an original sales brochure.
- Reader Troy recommended this story on Modern Capital, which explains the genesis of this beautiful line of midcentury modern furniture
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
how about that…I found a china cabinet not too long ago in a thrift store:
http://surfacetoairmedia.com/sparklythings/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/cab4.jpg
I don’t remember the hutch part as being too remarkable, but it did have some neat pulls on the doors:
http://surfacetoairmedia.com/sparklythings/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/cab4-knobs.jpg
these are all cell phone pics, so not the best quality. But something more for your archive!
I have a six-piece dining set of Brasilia that I bought on eBay (and sadly, paid much more than the other posters here). I love, love, love the look of the credenza, as well as the dining chairs, but none of it is very sturdy and it has taken a beating over the years that I don’t know if I can repair. Mostly, the veneer on the top of the credenza and the sides of several chairs is chipped and smushed (some of this happened in shipping the set to me). And the table is super-wiggly and loud when people are eating or typing on a laptop…
To Mad Sarah – We are so sorry to hear of the condition of your Brasilia. We specialize in the purchase and sale of this beautiful furniture. It is exceptionally well made and will last several generations if cared for in a reasonable manner. From what you describe, it has been terribly abused. Veneer is almost impossible to repair and reflects abuse and neglect. We have bought and sold 100’s of pieces and rarely find any issues with the veneer. When we do it is heavily discounted or used for parts. The table movement is likely caused by the bolts not being tight. Contact us through our web site and we will try to help you with the furniture. If beyond help we can replace some of the pieces for you. It is highly unusual to hear of the condition that you purchased. The story above refers to our web site. Art and Bonnie
I am the proud owner of several pieces of this amazing line of furniture. They are a statement in every room they are placed!
For me, the thrill is to have pieces of art that work as furniture.
Do not be shy, go to estate sales, stop by local thrift shops, collect this treasures!
My greatest achivment: To keep 2 dining sets (both styles) in a house of 1000 sq ft, without getting divorced…
Buying or Selling: Please post on the Forum (not here on the main site): http://retrorenovation.com/forum/