The Evolution of Eames Design: From Organic Furniture to Iconic Status
In 1940, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) sparked a revolution in vintage furniture design with its "Organic Design in Home Furnishings" competition. With the rapid changes in lifestyle during the 20th century, the furniture industry faced new demands, and MoMA's director, Eliot Noyes, challenged designers to create modern pieces that were both practical and economically viable, aligning with industrial standards. This competition became a pivotal moment in the history of vintage furniture, setting the stage for innovative designs that would stand the test of time.
Among the 585 global submissions, it was Charles Eames and Eero Saarinen who took home the first prizes for their groundbreaking work. Their designs, featuring curved lines and crafted using innovative techniques like molded plywood, were a game-changer. Plywood, a material with ancient origins, became central to their designs. Known for its affordability and suitability for mass production, plywood was key to the rise of mid-century modern furniture, which remains highly sought after in today’s vintage furniture market.
The Birth of Molded Plywood Furniture
Eames and Saarinen's pioneering seat models were celebrated for their innovative use of molded plywood, but they also faced significant challenges. Despite their visionary designs, the seats proved difficult to mass-produce due to the costly hand-finishing required to achieve the desired curved lines. The outbreak of World War II further complicated matters, as technological advancements were redirected towards military applications, delaying the industrial feasibility of these designs.
In June 1941, Charles Eames began a new chapter in his life, marrying artist Bernice "Ray" Kaiser and relocating to California. It was here that the Eameses' journey into the world of vintage furniture took a significant turn. The couple met John Entenza, an influential architect and editor of Arts & Architecture Magazine, who became a crucial supporter of their work. This relationship would lead to some of the most iconic pieces in the history of vintage design.
While Charles worked in the artistic department at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios (MGM), Ray contributed to Entenza's magazine, designing covers and collaborating on various articles. Together, they continued to refine their furniture designs, culminating in the creation of the "Kazam! Machine." This innovative device, made from wooden strips, plaster, electrical coils, and a bicycle pump, allowed them to experiment with and perfect their molded plywood seats.
The Eameses and the War Effort
The Kazam! Machine played a pivotal role in the evolution of molded plywood furniture, even catching the attention of the US Navy during World War II. A doctor and mutual friend suggested that the Eameses use their machine to create plywood splints for injured servicemen. Their prototype was a success, leading to mass production with the financial backing of John Entenza. This venture laid the groundwork for the establishment of Plyformed Wood Company and their first store on Santa Monica Boulevard in Venice.
Despite the initial challenges with the Kazam! Machine, the Eameses persisted, refining their techniques as new materials became available. Their work during the war not only contributed to the military effort but also advanced the design and production of vintage furniture. After the war, with the availability of new materials and the dissemination of previously classified information, the Eameses were able to further enhance their designs, leading to the creation of affordable, high-quality vintage homewares.
The Legacy of Eames Design
The 1950s marked a significant period for Charles and Ray Eames as they began incorporating plastic into their furniture designs, leveraging materials developed during the war. Their vibrant molded fiberglass seats, with interchangeable metal legs, quickly became iconic pieces of mid-century modern furniture. The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, introduced in 1956, symbolized the peak of their design experimentation. This luxurious piece, a blend of craftsmanship and mass production, remains a testament to their innovative spirit.
The Eameses' work was recognized and celebrated in 1946 when Eliot Noyes of the MoMA presented Charles Eames with the first solo exhibition dedicated to a designer. The success of this exhibition led to a partnership with the Herman Miller Furniture Company, which took on the production and commercialization of Eames' designs—a partnership that continues to this day.
Today, the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman are still in production, sold by Herman Miller for $3,500. Originally priced at $404, this chair has become an enduring symbol of vintage design and a sought-after piece in the world of vintage furniture.
Explore Vintage Eames Designs at Vintage Upcycle
The legacy of Charles and Ray Eames continues to inspire designers and collectors alike. Their avant-garde creations are prominently displayed in museums and libraries worldwide, serving as a source of inspiration for contemporary creators. At Vintage Upcycle, we celebrate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of vintage furniture designers like the Eameses.
Explore our curated collection of vintage homewares and mid-century modern furniture to discover pieces that reflect the timeless beauty and innovation of the past. Shop our store today and bring a piece of design history into your home. Whether you're looking for a statement piece or a unique addition to your collection, Vintage Upcycle has the perfect item for you.