Charles Darwin is not only noted for founding the theory of evolution, he was also an early pioneer of the desk chair. He was one of the first people to attach wheels to his seat, so that he could move effortlessly between his desk and specimen cabinets. Since the advent of his rudimentary design, the desk chair has become increasingly high-tech, with ergonomic features like adjustable seats and armrests becoming standard.

However, by no means all modern desk chairs can be said to be luxurious. In fact, many are the opposite: made from cheap fabrics and plastic. Here we take a close look at ten of the most high-end desk chairs available. These chairs are so sumptuous (and often costly) that they deserve to be called “seriously luxurious”.

Antonio Citterio AC 4 Chair [Antonio Citterio]

The sleek and slender AC 4 hides a multitude of possible adjustments beneath its minimalist exterior. Its back rest, for example, has three discreet sections: a lumbar zone supporting the lower back; a flexible middle zone for the upper back; and a more rigid support section for the shoulders. Even its armrests can be adjusted in three directions.

Let’s B [Turnstone]

The Let’s B is not the most swanky-looking chair in this list, but it’s great for people with back problems as its super-rigid back forces a fully upright seated position. The chair is made from a combination of leather and a rougher fabric, which stops you from slipping forward and slouching.

Aeron Chair [Herman Miller]

The ubiquitous Aeron Chair, designed in 1994 by Don Chadwick and Bill Stumpf for Herman Miller, is a modern design classic. It has an ultra-lightweight and comfortable back made of mesh, which allows air to circulate, eliminating sweaty back syndrome altogether. Its high and wide structure reduces pressure on the lower spine, and its “waterfall” edge along the front of the seat allows for better blood circulation to the legs.

Eames Soft Pad Management Chair [Eames]

This wonderfully chubby chair is fitted with chunky, two-inch thick seat cushions for maximum comfort. It has a lightweight aluminium base and frame, with tilt-swivel mechanism and seat-height adjustment. Its steel tubular column adds strength and durability to a chair that looks just as good around a dining table, as it does behind a desk.

Liberty [Humanscale]

The Liberty has clearly been influenced by the Aeron Chair, but does offer several improvements: it’s mesh back is completely free from any protrusions which might dig into your spine; it automatically eliminates any unsupported gaps as you recline; and, best of all, it comes with absolutely no knobs or levers whatsoever, automatically adjusting itself into the optimal position.

RBM 800 Series [RBM]

The fantastically soft and tactile RBM 800 Series has a high back and extra-long sliding seat which forces you into an ergonomically correct, yet completely comfortable working position. The chair, available in three slightly different designs, has separate handles for adjusting its backrest and seat tilt.

Leap [Steelcase]

The Leap, one of the more technologically advanced chairs in this list, has been shown to increase productivity by 17.8%. Using Live Back Technology, it can automatically change shape to suit your unique “spineprint”. Its patented Natural Glide System also allows you to recline without changing your line of vision.

Paramount Model 7897 Executive Ergonomic Office Chair [Office Master]

The Paramount Model 7897 is one of the best chairs in the extensive Office Master Range. Its defining feature is its ergonomic headrest, which forms a separate component to the chair’s back. This soft and comfy headrest can be adjusted in 4 different directions for maximum comfort.

Freedom [Humanscale]

The Freedom has just four simple controls, which govern seat height, seat depth, back height and arm height. All further adjustments are made automatically as it conforms to your weight and body shape. It has been designed to encourage frequent changes of position, and it can recline to an impressive 27 degrees. As you lean back, its intuitive headrest moves to support your neck.

BodyBilt K Series [Shape]

The K Series has a very large, supportive back, measuring an impressive 22 by 21.5 inches. Its undulating seat pan can be adjusted to three contour options. Its seat pad is made from memory foam, which moulds perfectly to your body, reducing pressure and evenly distributing bodyweight. It even has a “free floating position”, which allows you to gently rock back and forth.

Of course no office would be without a sofa where you can take a break. There’s a few places you can pick these up including the omnipresent Ikea (all types), Bari Leather Furniture (leather specialist) or one of these top sofa stores.