366 Concept: Over 60 Years of Heritage

One factory and two chairs – that’s where it all began. Two icons of Polish mid-century design that made 366 Concept what it is today.

The 1960s in Poland were a time of scarcity, which in turn demanded extraordinary inventiveness from Polish designers. Not only were production materials in short supply, but living spaces in small post-war apartments were limited. Designers of that era also had to confront technical constraints. But, as the saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention.

At the end of the 1950s, a fire destroyed the equipment of Poland’s largest furniture factories: the Lower Silesian Furniture Factories in Świebodzice. To resume production, the factory needed new, simple designs. It was then that young designers got their chance – and in a short time, two models were created that shaped Polish design.

Designer's wife, Czeslawa Chierowska, on a first 366 chair (from a private archive)

First, There Was 366

Compact, elegant, and lightweight. Designed by Józef Chierowski, this armchair transformed Polish homes and sold in millions across Eastern Bloc countries. 

It was not only popular in homes: it could also be seen in offices, embassies and public institutions. Today, 60 years later, it thrives in Parisian hotels and London homes, reminding us of the timelessness of mid-century modern style. 

Club interior design with armchair 366, designed by Józef Chierowski, 1960s.

Would Józef Chierowski be proud? We like to think so. The day his wife and daughter decided to sell the licence to manufacture the 366 armchair to us marked the beginning of 366 Concept.

Another Hero, a Name Lost to Time

Then came the “Lisek“ – an armchair designed by Henryk Lis, numbered 300-190. It continued the history of innovative modernist furniture production in Świebodzice. Its role? To be an alternative to the then highly sought-after 366 armchair. 

Thanks to its slightly larger dimensions, it provided a restful place to sit in club cafés, cultural centres and salons. Its simple yet elegant form guaranteed the ”Lisek” the same success as its predecessor, and the 300-190 armchair remained in production for decades. 

Despite this, its creator remained anonymous for years – even the designer's name was lost to history. Today, we pay tribute to its designer by telling his true story.

Henryk Lis's diploma of completion of higher art studies at the State Higher School of Fine Arts in Wrocław, 1969.

Just as they once conquered Poland, today our reeditions find their place in homes, hotels, and architectural projects from Paris to London and New York. Because good design is timeless – and has no borders. Today, we produce it legally, under exclusive licenses, and with respect for the original designers.

Excellent Design Doesn’t Need Round Numbers

366 Concept celebrates its 11th anniversary this year, the 366 armchair turns 63, and the “Lisek” – 58. For us, it’s the perfect occasion to celebrate the heritage of mid-century design.

Our goal? To continue the tradition started by the virtuosos of Polish design. It began with the 366 and the Lisek, known to us as the Fox, followed by other icons of 1960s Polish design: chairs, armchairs, shelving units, and complementary furniture we designed ourselves.

Always on our terms: with licences purchased from the designers' heirs, based on original drawings, using the highest quality materials. During the designers' lifetimes, these were not accessible. Today, we give their designs the most beautiful form possible.