Covet/Get It: Steel-and-Leather Chair

Oh how I've love, love, LOVED the slouchy, buttery-leather of Design Within Reach's Paulistano Armchair. Originally designed in 1957 by Brazilian architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha for the living room of the Athletic Club of São Paulo, the simple, cantileevered design is timeless. It's constructed from one single piece of bent steel, stretched with gorgeous leather, both chosen for their ability to age over time.

Sadly, I've never been able to part with the hefty $1500 price tag. But I may have found a suitable substitute...