S. Hille & Co is a prominent British furniture manufacturer and design company that was founded by Stanley Hille in 1906. Known for their innovative and stylish designs, S. Hille & Co played a significant role in shaping the British furniture industry during the mid-20th century.

Stanley Hille, the founder of the company, began his career as an apprentice cabinetmaker in London. With a passion for craftsmanship and design, Hille quickly established himself as a skilled furniture maker. In 1906, he established S. Hille & Co with the aim of creating high-quality, contemporary furniture that combined functionality with aesthetic appeal.

During the early years of the company, S. Hille & Co primarily focused on producing traditional furniture styles. However, it was under the leadership of Stanley's son, Leslie Hille, that the company started to embrace modernist design principles. Leslie, who joined the company in the 1920s, was greatly influenced by the emerging modernist movement in Europe and sought to bring its principles to British furniture design.

Under Leslie's guidance, S. Hille & Co began collaborating with renowned designers and architects, such as Marcel Breuer, Walter Gropius, and Robin Day. These collaborations resulted in the creation of iconic furniture pieces that showcased the company's commitment to modernist design. Notable examples include the "Hillestak" chair designed by Robin Day and the "Z" chair designed by Marcel Breuer.

Throughout the mid-20th century, S. Hille & Co continued to innovate and push the boundaries of furniture design. The company's commitment to quality craftsmanship and cutting-edge design earned them a reputation as one of the leading British furniture manufacturers of the time.

In addition to their contributions to furniture design, S. Hille & Co also played a significant role in promoting the principles of modernism in the British design industry. They actively participated in design exhibitions and events, showcasing their innovative furniture designs to a wider audience.

Although S. Hille & Co faced challenges during the economic downturn of the 1970s, the company's legacy as a pioneer in modernist furniture design remains influential. Today, their iconic designs are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, and the company's commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design continues to inspire furniture designers around the world.