Ward Bennett, the most Important Unknown Designer (?)

“I learn from people.” - Ward Bennett

Ward Bennett (1917-2003) was a mid-century Renaissance man whose career spanned over five decades with an extensive portfolio ranging from architecture, interiors, art and design. The New York Times described his work as defining "an era." And until a few weeks ago, I had never heard his name. And you ?

The Dakota Building, NY

His Apartment in Dakota Building, was once called "the most exciting modern apartment in New York."

But this is not a surprise because few books and retrospectives of his work have been presented since his death in 2003. In September 2017, Phaidon has released a book to present all of his work (I hope it is available at my library).

And only as a small introduction to this designer , I will present some examples of this works:

Small Button Tufted Sofa, 1970s
Hand-Crafted Leather
81 x 163 x 76 cm

Pair of Scissor Pillow Low Profile Highback Chairs, 1960s
91 x 62 x 89 cm

Armchair, designed for the LBJ Library at the University of Texas

He did also ceramics, jewelry... But his expertise was on interior design, a style uniquely American...

** Apartment with views of Central Park, NY**

And for conclusion, I give the floor to Ward Bennett

Interior Design The New Freedom: Ward Bennett, 1981

Sources :

• His bio on Wiki
• Furniture on Herman Miller
• Article on TM Magazine, July 2013
• Article on NY Times, August 2003
• Article on Architectural Digest