Lydia’s Side Chair

The Lydia's Side Chair holds a storied place in our history as the very first chair designed by Charles Shackleton for his original furniture line in 1986. Originally known simply as the "Upholstered Arm Chair" to distinguish it from the woven-seated Cottage collection, this piece has remained our most successful design for over 35 years due to its remarkable ability to suit both casual and formal dining settings. Now renamed in honor of the Shackleton family—shared by Charlie’s great-aunt, a botanical illustrator, and his younger sister—this chair brings a piece of Irish heritage and timeless Vermont craft to the table.

The design is defined by its architectural elegance and masterfully carved surfaces:

Features & Craftsmanship

• Masterful Hand-Carving: The top back, upper legs, spokes, and lower back all feature softly carved details created exclusively with hand tools.

• Dynamic Light Play: Because every feature is hand-shaped, the resulting varying angles create a beautiful play of light across the timber that adds a unique visual stimulus to your dining room.

• Exceptional Comfort: The chair is engineered so the body feels "contained" when seated, offering a sensuous look paired with a surprising feeling of ergonomic support.

• Refined Silhouette: The high back and slim vertical slats provide a sophisticated verticality, while the tapered legs maintain a light visual footprint.

• Plush Upholstered Seat: A crisp, tailored seat cushion provides a soft contrast to the solid wood frame, ensuring comfort through long dinners and conversation.

• Heirloom Construction: Meticulously handcrafted from solid American hardwoods, such as cherry, using traditional joinery meant to last for generations.

The Lydia's Side Chair is a durable work of art, representing the foundational soul of ShackletonThomas and the enduring beauty of the human touch in furniture design.