Pair of Shelf of Units, by Percival Lafer, Brazilian Mid-Century Design

The shelf is constructed with a combination of polished metal and warm-toned wood, a Brazilian hardwood, which was a common material choice for Lafer’s designs. The frame of the shelf consists of sleek, chrome-plated metal tubes that form a sturdy and elegant structure. The metal elements reflect a modern, industrial feel while also providing a strong contrast to the organic wood components.

The wooden shelves and cabinet sections are finished with a rich grain, typical of Lafer’s attention to the natural beauty of the materials. The wood is cut in clean lines and flush surfaces, seamlessly integrated into the metal frame, giving the shelf a cohesive and streamlined look. The cabinet section features a drop-down door, revealing storage space that is both functional and discreet.

The overall design of the shelf is linear and minimalistic, with open shelving that allows for the display of items without visual clutter. The combination of open and closed storage gives it versatility and makes it suitable for various uses.

Percival Lafer’s furniture often embodied the innovative spirit of Brazilian design, which embraced modernity while also honoring the richness of its natural resources.

About the designer:
Percival Lafer is a renowned Brazilian furniture designer whose work significantly contributed to the modernist movement in Brazil. Born in 1936, Lafer was originally trained as an architect at São Paulo’s Universidade Mackenzie. However, the unexpected passing of his father led him to take over the family furniture business with his brothers, which catalyzed his shift to furniture design in 1961.

His first notable design, the MP-1 Armchair, was launched the same year and became a hit for its innovative use of materials and design. This chair featured a steel base wrapped in rosewood and was upholstered with foam rather than traditional springs. This design approach epitomized Lafer’s principle of creating fine design that was accessible and affordable.

Lafer also pioneered in the mechanical furniture movements, creating the MP-7 sofa in 1965, which could transform into a twin bed—the first of its kind on the market. Beyond furniture, he even ventured into automotive design with the MP Lafer, a fiberglass roadster inspired by British sports cars.

His work has enjoyed international success, with his designs being exported globally, making him one of Brazil’s leading furniture exporters. A retrospective of his work was featured in the São Paulo Design Weekend in 2017, celebrating his long-standing influence in the field of design.
Percival Lafer’s legacy continues, with his seating designs remaining highly sought after for their unique blend of modern shapes and local Brazilian materials​