About Willy Guhl
Willy Guhl (1915-2004), born into a family of craftsmen, honed his skills as a furniture maker at the Kunstgewerbeschule in Zurich before assuming the role of head of the interior design department in 1951. In the late 1940s, his pioneering research on plastic furniture laid the groundwork for his exploration of new materials. His mastery of casting techniques led him to experiment with Eternit, a fibrous cement material reinforced with asbestos.
This groundbreaking material allowed him to create bold, sculptural pieces with unprecedented forms, particularly suited for outdoor furniture due to its affordability and durability. Guhl's portfolio was diverse, including not only seating furniture but also planters and even mowing machines, showcasing his versatility and ingenuity in design.