Iconic design and the Eames influence
When it comes to furnishing a home or office, the unification of function, form and style never goes out of fashion Austerity affects budgets, however, there is always a desire for classic designs that ooze quality Despite alterations in both taste and budget, iconic furniture will always be in demand Eames office lounge chairs retain a timeless design that has kept them in the public consciousness for the past few decades
Developed by brothers Charles and Ray Eames and unveiled in 1956, the lounge chair and ottoman bearing their familial name is 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.
Having undergone extensive design by the Eames brothers, the lounge set was unveiled toa rapturous reception and subsequently developed by close collaborator, Hermann Miller The chair and ottoman combination turned into real winners, capturing numerous style accolades Culturally, the iconic furniture design has been permanently recognised and displayed by both the New York Museum of Modern Art and the Art Institure of Chicago A debut appearance at the Arlene Francis ‘Home Show’ in the symbolic year of 1956 also cemented the Eames Lounger’s popular appeal More recently, famous fictional psychiatrist ‘Frasier Crane’ of the hit American television sitcom bearing his Christian name has displayed a set of the furniture in his 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 upheld the original values of the design: an underlying wooden substrate, three curved plywood shells made from a series of moulded wood veneer layers and thick cushioning contribute to the sumptuous upholstery 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 Not merely a status symbol, the Eames’ design has a substance and quality that’s hard to match
In aiming to create a refuge from the stress and strain of modern life, the brothers have engineered a piece of intelligent design currently residing in illustrious living rooms, libraries, studies and offices worldwide That just leaves the prospective buyer to ponder: where’s the best place in my home or office to 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 Eames chair.
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