Lucian Ercolani

Lucian Randolph Ercolani, born Luciano Randolfo Ercolani in 1888, began life in Sant'Angelo in Vado, Italy, before his family sought new opportunities in London’s East End. Overcoming humble beginnings and leaving school at age 14 to support his family, Ercolani honed his passion for design through evening courses at Shoreditch Technical Institute. Guided by his father’s craftsmanship and his own dedication, he shaped his skills early, evident in his first creation, a musical cabinet with mother-of-pearl inlay, foreshadowing a career blending practical skill with artistry.

Crafting a Modern Classic: The Ercol Approach

In 1920, Ercolani established Furniture Industries known today as Ercol, in High Wycombe, a pivotal move for British furniture design. His guiding principle, "design for comfort; design for function; design for beauty", set a new standard in the industry. Ercolani’s work stood out for its modern, clean lines and elegant functionality, departing from the ornate furniture styles of the prewar era. Passionate about material integrity, he favored British woods like beech and elm, letting their natural beauty shine through. The meticulous craftsmanship in every piece, especially visible in icons such as the Windsor Chair and Butterfly Chair, reflects Ercolani’s lasting commitment to simple, sculptural, and practical design.

A Lasting Legacy in Contemporary Design

Ercolani’s forward-thinking approach helped shape postwar Britain’s domestic landscape, making well-designed, mass-produced furnishings accessible to many. His innovation and vision not only revived his company after World War II but also set enduring benchmarks for the industry. Today, Ercol’s Originals Collection continues to uphold Ercolani’s ideals, earning accolades like the Design Guild Mark for design excellence. Revered by collectors and designers worldwide, Lucian Ercolani’s work endures as a symbol of timeless style, quality, and the transformative power of thoughtful design.