Fred Lowen’s journey is a captivating tale filled with intrigue and resilience. Born in Germany in 1919, he fled Nazi Germany and embarked on a tumultuous journey aboard the Dunera, ultimately finding himself in internment camps in Hay and Tatura, Australia.
From humble beginnings, Fred’s foray into the world of furniture began with hand-turned wooden bowls. The modest success of these bowls inspired him to explore the creation of crafted timber products further.
Teaming up with Ernest Rodeck, another Dunera arrival, Fred co-founded the iconic furniture company known as FLER, derived from their initials. In 1946, FLER took root in Melbourne, strategically positioned to meet the post-war nation’s needs after enduring years of rationing. Modernism emerged as a beacon of hope, offering a fresh aesthetic and a departure from the old ways and the reminders of the war years.
FLER holds significant importance in Australian design history as it marked a shift from a craft-oriented model to mass production. Fred Lowen and Ernest Rodeck managed to create furniture with a handcrafted feel while producing them in large quantities to satisfy the growing demand of a population captivated by the modernist aesthetic. FLER’s success continued to soar, expanding nationally and spearheading modernized furniture production across the country.
FLER’s repertoire encompassed a wide range of Scandinavian-style furniture. Notable chairs include the Executive Desk chair, TVS, SC55, and SC58. These designs embody the fusion of simplicity, form, and function that characterizes Australian modernist style. Practical yet slightly austere, they possess a touch of uniqueness that sets them apart.
In later years, FLER was sold, and Fred Lowen ventured into new endeavors. In the 1960s, he established Twen, which eventually transformed into Tessa, a renowned name in quality contemporary furniture that remained active up until recently. Tessa’s classic designs include the T8 chaise, the T4 lounge chair, and the Wegner-inspired T5 lounge.
For a comprehensive understanding of Fred Lowen’s life and work, I highly recommend watching the excellent documentary produced by the ABC. Additionally, Fred’s biography, titled “Fred Lowen: Dunera Boy, Furniture Designer, Artist,” offers a fascinating account complete with abundant information and photographs of his furniture designs for FLER and Tessa. This book is an essential addition to the collection of any Australian post-war design enthusiast.