What defines a perfect chair? 2.0
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Introduction
Nice to see everyone again, hope all is well.
In our last article, we introduced the Barcelona Chair, designed by modernist master Mies Van Der Rohe, and explored the life of his collaborator, Lilly Reich. Today, I have selected another iconic chair—the La Chaise—and will share with you the fascinating lives of the Eames couple, Charles & Ray Eames, who have significantly influenced modern design for nearly a century.
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Chair that Adrift Above the Clouds
International Low-Cost Furniture Design Competition (1948)
This journey traces back to 1948 when the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in the United States held the "International Low-Cost Furniture Design Competition."
This was the time when the world was recovering from the aftermath of World War II, the time where everything was emerging. At that time, MoMA was seeking chair designs that’s mass-producible, and groundbreaking. The Eames couple decided to enter the competition with the aim of addressing the issue of "high costs" through their design. Among their submissions, the chair that left the deepest impression on the judges was the one resembling a cloud adrift in the sky.
La Chaise Chair
The design of the chair was inspired by the sculpture Floating Figure by French sculptor Gaston Lachaise. The Eameses captured the ethereal, cloud-like sensation through the sculptural lines of their chair.
Floating Figure Sculpture
At that time, the cost of manufacturing chairs was a significant issue. The Eames couple collaborated with the engineering department at UCLA, utilizing fiberglass as the primary material and aluminum stamping as the technique. They created a series of full-scale 1:1 models. The "integrated" design thoroughly addressed the cost issue, making it a perfect combination of practicality and artistry.
Fiberglass Material
Chromed Metal Rods
Streamlined Body Formed by Two Curved Sections
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A Complementary Duo
Charles Eames, born in 1907, had a profound interest in architecture from his student days. Frank Lloyd Wright and his architectural designs were his greatest inspirations. Interestingly, it was said that he was expelled from school for mimicking Wright's avant-garde design philosophy. Nonetheless, at the age of 23, Eames established his own architectural studio, demonstrating that his dismissal from school did not deter his passion for design.
On the other hand, Ray Kaiser, born in California in 1912, studied geometric structure and color usage under the guidance of Abstract Expressionist Hans Hofmann after graduating from university. It was at the Cranbrook Academy of Art where she met Charles Eames, the man who significantly impacted her life.
Charles and Ray Eames at Cranbrook Academy of Art (1940)
Eames Molded Plywood Chair (1946)
In the post-World War II era, when resources were scarce, Charles and Ray Eames contemplated how to create infinite value with limited resources. Plastic became their material of choice. Here are some of their iconic works:
Chair made of plywood
This chair marks the starting point of their plywood series. It is constructed from five layers of plywood, heated and glued using specialized machinery. Through this processing, it achieves a sleek structure. The backrest itself provides support and connection, reducing the number of parts needed and perfectly embodying the modernist principle of simplicity and elegance. This chair is an outstanding early work of the Eames couple.
Eames Molded Fiberglass Chair (1950)
Molded fiberglass chair in various colors
In 1950, the Eames couple collaborated with plastic manufacturer Zenith Plastics and furniture maker Herman Miller, using leftover parts and fiberglass from World War II to create one of their most memorable pieces. Due to its simple, powerful design, affordable price, and compatibility with any color, it became a favorite in public spaces.
Eames Soft Pad Chairs (1967)
Black Eames Soft Pad Chair
Using cast aluminum as the frame, at the time of 1950s, this was a highly forward-thinking in design. Originally intended as an outdoor chair, its durability was incredible. The introduction of the suspended backrest revolutionized the understanding of chair structure at the time. Modern office chair designs often trace their roots back to this innovation.
Eames Sofa (1978)
Black Eames Sofa
This sofa was the last piece designed by Charles and Ray Eames. Unlike the Barcelona chair, it uses a reclining support structure. The covering fabric, whether wool or leather, can be customized according to the user's preference. Since its mass production began in 1984, it remains one of the most popular sofas on the market.
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The Pinnacle of Ergonomics
Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman (1954)
Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman
The Eames lounge chair and ottoman is arguably one of the most coveted pieces of furniture ever made and the most influential work of their career. This personal lounge chair, paired with an ottoman, features a 15-degree recline that set a new standard.
Structure of the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman
The three-section cushion perfectly conforms to the human body, making the chair feel like a perfect fit. Each joint is fitted with rubber washers to ensure the chair finds just the right support point.
Chair wrapped in rosewood
Covered in soft, comfortable Scottish leather
Charles and Ray Eames sitting in the newly designed lounge chair (1954)
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A Blessing for Their Daughter
Besides the well-known masterpieces by Charles and Ray Eames, they also created various delightful pieces of furniture for their daughter during their spare time. Let's take a look at these designs, reflecting the couple's profound love and playful spirit.
Hang it All! (1953)
Made of maple wood, the cute design encourages children to hang up their clothes. The hooks are made of steel, making them sturdy and reliable.
Eames Elephant (1945)
Designed for their daughter, this elephant chair is made from a thin sheet of molded plywood. In 2008, it was mass-produced by Vitra. With its adorable design and waterproof, non-toxic material, it remains popular to this day.
The original chair made by the Eames couple is now housed in MoMA.
References:
1. Kat Leung, Silvia Sun. “Vogue Edits／.” Vogue Taiwan, 1 Sept. 2021, www.vogue.com.tw/lifestyle/galerie/eames-best-10-pieces.
2. “DECO– Charles＆ray Eames - Do up Décor Planner.” Charles＆Ray Eames - DO UP Décor Planner, www.doupdeco.com/blog-content.php?id=14. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.
3. “The World of Charles and Ray Eames.” MOT TIMES , www.mottimes.com/cht/article_detail.php?serial=800&type=1. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.
Translator: J