Coveted Stephane Rondel Aluminium 'Peanut' Chair
French-born Stephane Rondel created some of New Zealand's most iconic furniture and design objects during the late 20th Century. His talent led to furniture commissions for the Élysée Palace in Paris and large scale, award-winning design projects in New Zealand.
In the 90's and early 2000's Rondel's work was coveted not only locally but also internationally. His furniture featured in several music videos, album covers and movies. Pop culture sightings include an interview with Halle Berry, the cover of a George Michael album single, and a glamour shot of Charlize Theron.
The curvaceous 'Peanut' chair is Rondel's most iconic and collectable design. It features a cast aluminium filigree showcasing romantic ribbon-like detail. These special chairs were produced in small batches and are an inspired example of New Zealand produced design.
NOTE: Price is for one chair. Two available.
Each piece is checked and carefully hand restored at our Kingsland studio workshop. Our focus is preserving the character and patina of the design while ensuring it displays beautifully in a contemporary interior.
Each piece is checked and carefully restored at our Kingsland studio workshop. Our focus is preserving the character and patina of the design while ensuring it displays beautifully in a contemporary interior.
- Joints checked and reglued
- Timber cleaned and stains removed
- Veneer repairs if needed
- Surfaces polished / refinished
The items showcased in our gallery are constantly changing – not all items are on display at once.
Please enquire if there is a specific piece you would like to view and we’ll make sure it’s in the gallery.
All pieces are available for collection in person from our Ponsonby gallery. We are also happy to provide a quote for delivery throughout New Zealand.
Please enquire for delivery options.
Coveted Stephane Rondel Aluminium 'Peanut' Chair
Note: We showcase a curated edit from the Mr. Bigglesworthy catalogue. Please contact us to view specific items.
Stephane Rondel initially studied mechanical engineering in Paris. Before completing his degree, Rondel decided he already possessed the creativity needed to succeed, and that he would focus on his passion for metal fabrication.
The choice paid off and by 1989 Rondel was being commissioned to work on several prestigious projects including the production of Eric Schmitt’s stool design for the Elysee Palace in Paris, and furnishing the chateau of prominent Parisian jeweller, Michel Ermelin of Poiray.
In 1990 Rondel relocated to New Zealand for family and lifestyle reasons. The move involved leaving great opportunities in France and starting again in a new country. Rondel adapted creatively and his output evolved from welding and forging metal to also casting aluminium.
Rondel Design Ltd was founded in 1992 to produce Stephane’s distinct and highly curvaceous offering of cast aluminium designer products. The broad range included trivets, hooks, chairs and even a cast aluminium BBQ. Today, examples are included in the permanent collections of museums in New Zealand and abroad.
At the height of his career, Rondel’s furniture featured in several international music videos, album covers and movies. Pop culture sightings include an interview with Halle Berry, the cover of a George Michael album single, and a glamour shot of Charlize Theron.
In Auckland, Rondel also contributed to major projects like Sky City Casino and a 400-square-meter trivet wall at the Aotea Entertainment Centre. He also made trophies for TVNZ awards, and the Americas Cup race series.
Rondel has two daughters, Jordan, and Anouk, who have also become prominent for founding and growing the successful bespoke cake-making business ‘The Caker’.
