In 1919 the architect Walter Gropius founded the Bauhaus, a new school of art and design aimed at further integrating art and technology. Students were trained by artists and craftsmen in order to develop functional, innovative designs for mass production. Gropius encouraged Breuer to think in terms of standardised modules, making mass production easier, and Armchair reflects this innovative approach. Its simple textile seat and back are flexible and there is no heavy upholstery to catch dust. The seat is angled to support the upper leg, and the backrests are staggered to support the back but leave it free from pressure.