HiP Awards > People > Manufacturer: Lifetime of Hipness

Courage, innovation, and dedication define the extraordinary career of Friedrich-Wilhelm Dauphin, founder of one of Europe’s leading office furniture companies. In 1968, at just 30 years old, Dauphin boldly acquired the German subsidiary of English manufacturer Evertaut and began importing and distributing office chairs across Germany. Starting with nothing more than a suitcase and a sample chair, he quickly earned his first major contract—25,000 chairs for North Rhine-Westphalia. Dauphin’s breakthrough came in 1973 with an innovative, space-saving swivel chair design. It laid the foundation for an international export business and over 84 patents, including the first synchronized office chair mechanism—pioneering dynamic seating. His vision extended beyond functionality: Dauphin consistently merged ergonomics with modern design, shaping the future of workplace solutions. Through strategic acquisitions and the establishment of the Dauphin HumanDesign® Group and Dauphin Home, the company evolved into a global provider of complete furnishing solutions. With 740 employees and 23 production and sales companies worldwide, Dauphin’s impact is both profound and enduring. His entrepreneurial spirit also flourished outside the office. He and his late wife Elke built a renowned vintage car and motorcycle collection, showcased at the “Dauphin Speed Event” venue. Their 300-hectare South African estate, Allée Bleue, produces award-winning wines and hosts major cultural events. A recipient of the Bavarian Founder Award in 2014, Dauphin was an early adopter of lean production and modern leadership. Though he stepped back from daily operations in 2016, he continues to serve as Chairman of the Shareholder Committee, supporting his daughter Antje in carrying forward the company’s legacy. Friedrich-Wilhelm Dauphin’s remarkable career is a testament to visionary leadership, design excellence, and enduring impact on modern workspaces worldwide.