Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886-1969) is by consensus one of the 20th century’s most illustrious architects. No one subjected the building art to a more rigorous analysis of structure and space or translated it with greater sensitivity into the abstract form that is central to the expressive language of early modernism. In doing so, Mies invoked the spirit of the age. Indeed, the scrupulously detailed glass curtain walls of his skyscrapers have sculpted an indelible imprint on the contemporary urban landscape. Mies van der Rohe’s extensive architectural oeuvre is readily accessible through books and the internet.

Undoubtedly, the Farnsworth House designed and built between 1946-1951, is one of Mies’ seminal designs. It is widely known as a symbol of 20th century architecture and draws visitors from around the world despite its location more than one hour outside of Chicago in the countryside of Illinois. It is the subject of numerous books and scholarly studies.

The house is named after Dr. Edith Farnsworth, a personal friend of Mies van der Rohe’s. Their relationship deteriorated during the creation of the house due to mounting costs and the bitterness between them ultimately resulted in a well known court case which was ruled in Mies’ favor. Because of Dr. Farnsworth’s animosity towards Mies after the court verdict, she never furnished the house with appropriate modern furniture, not to mention, Mies furniture.

In 1972, the house was acquired by Peter Palumbo, an Englishman and admirer of Mies’ work. He asked Dirk Lohan to renovate and refurbish the house. Several wooden pieces of furniture were specifically designed by Dirk Lohan to compliment the well known Mies van der Rohe furniture i.e. Barcelona Chairs etc. This was the first time in the house’s history that it was furnished in the manner that it was meant to be where the architecture and the interior furnishings complimented each other.