Vintage G Plan Furniture
Vintage G Plan furniture has become a cherished hallmark of mid-century modern design, prized for its sleek lines, quality craftsmanship, and enduring appeal. First introduced in post-war Britain, G Plan transformed how people furnished their homes, offering stylish, accessible, and modular designs that reflected a new era of optimism and modernity.
A Brief History
G Plan was launched in 1953 by E. Gomme Ltd, a furniture manufacturer based in High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire—then a hub of the British furniture industry. The brand’s name, “G Plan,” was derived from Donald Gomme, the company’s visionary marketing director. Seeking to revolutionize the outdated and rigidly traditional British furniture market, Gomme aimed to create a coordinated range of contemporary furniture that was affordable and adaptable to modern homes.
G Plan hit its stride in the 1950s and 1960s, becoming synonymous with modern living. The company offered flexibility that was rare at the time: customers could buy individual pieces from the same range over time, confident they would match. This modular approach proved incredibly popular with the growing middle class, and G Plan soon became a household name.
Style and Aesthetic
G Plan furniture is instantly recognizable for its clean lines, minimalist forms, and Scandinavian influences. Early collections leaned heavily into the Scandinavian modern aesthetic—simple yet elegant, with a focus on function and form. Later collections in the 1960s and 1970s embraced more bold and sculptural elements, including sweeping curves, rich wood tones, and eye-catching brass handles.
One of the most iconic collections was the Fresco range, introduced in the mid-1960s. It featured sumptuous teak veneers, organic handles, and curving silhouettes that captured the essence of the era’s relaxed sophistication. Whether it was a sideboard, coffee table, or dining set, G Plan pieces balanced style with practicality—something that resonates with today’s vintage enthusiasts.
Materials and Craftsmanship
G Plan's commitment to quality was central to its success. Teak was the most commonly used wood, valued for its durability, warmth, and beautiful grain. Other materials included afromosia (African teak), rosewood, and occasionally mahogany or walnut in later lines. These were paired with solid construction methods, like dovetail joints and precision joinery, ensuring the pieces were built to last.
Soft furnishings, such as chairs and sofas, often featured luxurious fabrics or leatherette, sometimes in bold colors that echoed the vibrant spirit of the 1960s and 70s.
Designers Behind the Brand
Several influential designers helped define G Plan’s visual identity. One of the most notable was Ib Kofod-Larsen, a Danish designer whose contributions infused G Plan with authentic Scandinavian flair. His designs, such as the Kofod-Larsen armchair, are now considered collector’s items.
Another key figure was Victor Bramwell (V.B.) Wilkins, who was responsible for designing the Fresco range—one of G Plan’s most iconic collections. His use of sensual curves and sculptural handles elevated everyday furniture into something deeply stylish.
Today, vintage G Plan furniture enjoys a vibrant resurgence. Whether it’s a sleek sideboard or an elegant dining table, these pieces offer timeless design, superb craftsmanship, and a rich design heritage. They’re more than just furniture—they’re enduring icons of British mid-century modernism.
Search G Plan in the search box above to see some examples of their range.
