Timeless Chair Design And The Eames Effect
Changing tastes can never dilute the aim of reaching for an unification of function, form and style when attempting to furnish a home or office
Quality and class still retains its desirability, even in more austere times
Iconic furniture remains in demand despite economic downturns and changes in taste
Eames office lounge chairs retain a timeless design that has kept them in the public consciousness for the past few decades
An iconic piece of office furniture emanating from the style guidebook of Charles and Ray Eames in 1956, the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman symbolise one of the most influential designs of the 20th century
Indeed, in proclaiming that he wanted his chair to “resemble the warmth, familiarity and comfort of a well-worn baseball mitt”, Charles Eames’ words still contain meaning that makes them as apt today as they were over fifty years ago.
All of the Eames brothers’ extensive work paid off, as their lounge set received a rapturous reception upon its unveiling and was then developed by long-time collaborator, Hermann Miller
Since then, the Eames’ chair and ottoman combination has captured numerous style accolades
Of cultural significance, the iconic furniture has gained entry into the permanent collections of both the New York Museum of Modern Art and has also appeared for decades at the Art Institute of Chicago
Its popular appeal was also sealed by the debut appearance of the Eames Lounger on the Arlene Francis ‘Home Show’ in that successful year of 1956
Television viewers familiar with the hit American sitcom Frasier may also have noticed a set of the furniture in the title character’s upmarket apartment
It’s no surprise that Eames office chairs have gained such notoriety. They are beautifully designed and crafted, objects in which to luxuriate and do business in.
Italian leather and a rich veneer combine to ensure anyone purchasing an Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman has a relaxing experience
Modern build quality has refused to compromise the original values of the design: with a foundation of an underlying wooden substrate and three curved plywood shells made from a series of moulded wood veneer layers, this furniture remains sturdy, beautiful and sumptuously finished with thick cushioning
A solid metal black base with polished stainless steel top usually accompanies the modern version: rather than tilt, the Eames Lounger is a swivel chair that remains permanently reclined an angle of natural repose in order to distribute body weight towards the rear of the chair for maximum comfort.
Sure, owning an iconic piece of history and a lounge chair that’s been described as an understatement of ‘cool’ is an attractive proposition in any home or office
Alas, while that might be the truth, as already evidenced, there’s definite substance and quality behind the Eames’ design that ranks it above merely the title of status symbol
The brothers’ piece of intelligent design was intended to create a refuge from the stress and strain of modern life and can now be seen adorning illustrious living rooms, libraries, studies and offices across the globe
Anyone interested in buying an Eames lounge chair set now just has to ask themselves: where will I put mine?
Icon Inspired are experts when it comes to reproducing the Eames’ classic furniture design. Icon Inspired’s bespoke collection features some of the most striking home and office furniture design of the past century, making them the choice of interior designers
Processing your request, Please wait....
