Design is for living. That maxim shaped a widespread shift in design during the 1940s and 1950s. It was a revolution of form, an exciting visual language that signaled a new age and a fresh start – and two of its prime movers were Charles and Ray Eames. The Eameses were a husband and wife team whose unique synergy led to a whole new look in furniture. Lean and modern. Sleek, sophisticated and simple. Beautifully functional.
Yet Charles and Ray Eames created more than a "look" with their bent plywood chairs or molded fiberglass seating. They had ideas about making a better world, one in which things were designed to fulfill the practical needs of ordinary people and bring greater simplicity and pleasure to our lives.
As the most important exponents of organic design, Charles and Ray Eames demonstrated how good design can improve quality of life and human understanding and knowledge.
Artist photo from 1000 Chairs courtesy of Taschen.
Here is a comparison of the two original chairs by Eames® available through Design Within Reach. Both come in multiple finishes and are beautiful, but high in price.
First great alternative. We saw these in person at the West Elm store in Center City Philadelphia and fell in love. Not only are they a GREAT alternative but are very similar to the Eames® chairs. These chairs are in stock at the store, however they do require assembly.
These last two alternatives are at a GREAT price point! They are available through IKEA and as all furniture from Ikea, assembly is required. Not quite as similar to the Eames® chairs, but a close match in the idea of the same simple design. Plus at $39.99 a pop you really cannot go wrong!
Here are some things we think you should check out!
Posts
