20thCenturyChairs.com


		Charles and Ray Eames USA 1907-1978 , 1912-1989


	Charles and Ray Eames were the renaissance designers of the 20th century. Their work in California from the 1940's to the 1970's in furniture, architecture, exhibitions, films, toys, and books resulted in the word "Eames" being elevated to that of an adjective to describe the style of the era. Charles studied architecture in Washington and Europe and subsequently received a fellowship to Cranbrook. Ray was trained as an artist and sculptor, and together they formed a partnership that covered a wide range of design fields. The pair shared a wholehearted idealistic belief that good design could "improve the lives of people", with designs incorporating function, elegance and wit. The intention was to bring modern design to the people, and not just for the elite. They were advocates of mass-production of furnishings to spread low-cost, high-quality modern design to everyone. One outstanding keystone design element produced by this partnership was the work with molded plywood for furniture. The design work originally began with producing molded plywood splints and stretchers for the war effort, the versatile process quickly evolved into chairs screens and tables; melding functionality with elegant simplicity. Other pioneering efforts were realized in the field of fiberglass and At the end of World War II the Eameses joined a movement to provide affordable housing and the "good life" to war veterans. Their proposal of the do-it-yourself Kwikset House allowed the integration of high and low art, modern materials, construction technologies, craft and design, composed of only pre-fabricated components based on a welded steel frame and plywood panels. Primary colors on the panels provided a fresh injection of avant-garde. The Eames House was designed as a prototype for the concept and remains home to the Eames Office today.