Modern Icons: Eames Molded Plywood Chairs
Becky Harris
October 12, 2010
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia.
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe... More
The design Time called "the best design of the 20th century" has certainly endured well into the 21st century.* The Eames Molded Plywood Chair is a staple of mid-century modern furnishings. It was designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1946 for Herman Miller. The following quote is so great I am going to crib it straight from Herman Miller's site:
"Time called the design 'something elegant, light and comfortable. Much copied but never bettered.' (A locomotive came in second.)"
Charles and Ray pioneered new technologies for molding wood that they integrated into the design of this chair. They wanted a chair that would fit the contours of the body comfortably, doing away with the need for cushions. In fact, their work with wood molding was actually applied to the designs of strechers and splints that were used during World War II!
Lucky for Mid-Century Modern Design fans, what was good for splints was also good for seats. There are several iterations available, one is the Molded Plywood Lounge Chair, another is the Molded Plywood Dining Chair, and they are available with the legs and support made of wood or of metal rods. I have spied them all over Houzz in every room possible - kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, libraries, studies, bedrooms, and hallways - they are very versatile. I'll show you just how versatile below. If you see any around that I've missed, please share it with us in the comments section.
"Time called the design 'something elegant, light and comfortable. Much copied but never bettered.' (A locomotive came in second.)"
Charles and Ray pioneered new technologies for molding wood that they integrated into the design of this chair. They wanted a chair that would fit the contours of the body comfortably, doing away with the need for cushions. In fact, their work with wood molding was actually applied to the designs of strechers and splints that were used during World War II!
Lucky for Mid-Century Modern Design fans, what was good for splints was also good for seats. There are several iterations available, one is the Molded Plywood Lounge Chair, another is the Molded Plywood Dining Chair, and they are available with the legs and support made of wood or of metal rods. I have spied them all over Houzz in every room possible - kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, libraries, studies, bedrooms, and hallways - they are very versatile. I'll show you just how versatile below. If you see any around that I've missed, please share it with us in the comments section.
If you are going to add one bit of bright color to a room, this chair is the way to do it.
The chair is strong enough to stand alone...
like here (a great occasional chair in a bedroom)...
Audrey Matlock Architects
and here (LOVE it with that unexpected antler chandelier!)...
and here (a nice contrast to the cushy upholstered pieces).
Roger Hirsch Architect
This chair is wonderful to use in pairs.
It's lovely against the wooden window casings and THAT VIEW)...
...and plays nice in a group, especially in a kitchen or dining room.
Charles and Ray were experimenting with ways to mold wood to fit the body so that cushions would not be necessary.
This homeowner has collected iconic pieces that hold their own in front of a large window and next to a baby grand piano.
This is the dining chair version with rods. It's sculptural in a different way, yet still provides the same contoured back and seat for comfort.
The version with rods stands on its own just like the all-wood version.
It also makes a handsome desk chair.
The lounge chair version works well with a big cushy sofa. It's great when you want one more spot for guests to sit, but doesn't take up the space of a large upholstered lounge chair.
It's fun to see the other pieces that Eames fans have put in their furniture arrangements. The Noguchi coffee table is a popular choice.
See what I mean?
With over 8 years of experience serving the Columbus and surround area, Hoffman Exteriors, is your solution for... Read More
What are you working on?
Related Products
Related Stories
Living Rooms
How to Decorate a Small Living Room
Arrange your compact living room to get the comfort, seating and style you need
Full Story
Decorating Guides
How to Get Your Furniture Arrangement Right
By Fred Albert
Follow these 10 basic layout rules for a polished, pulled-together look in any room
Full Story
Events
20 Furniture Trends to Watch for 2024
See subtle refreshes of enduring trends — plus fun design details — that stood out at the fall 2023 High Point Market
Full Story
Events
10 Fresh Furniture and Decor Trends for 2023
Greens and blues, art and artisanship, and mixed eras and textures fill the spring 2023 collections at High Point Market
Full Story
Living Rooms
How to Buy a Quality Sofa That Will Last
By Fred Albert
Learn about foam versus feathers, seat depth, springs, fabric and more for a couch that will work for years to come
Full Story
Kitchen Islands
6 Bar Stool Styles That Work in (Almost) Every Kitchen
Stick to these materials for your island seating and you won’t go wrong
Full Story
Decorating Guides
Your Essential Sofa Buying Guide
By Susan Redman
Here’s what to consider when looking for a quality sofa that will last
Full Story
Decorating Guides
8 Pieces of Furniture You’ll Keep Forever
By tidgboutique
If you’re just starting out in a new place, consider these furniture options you can take with you to any new home
Full Story
Decorating Guides
Should You Go Custom? Home Professionals Weigh In
Pros share 10 things to consider before deciding between tailor-made and ready-made features and furnishings
Full Story
Events
Scandinavian Modern Classics at Denmark’s 3 Days of Design
Midcentury modern furniture and lighting, and circular design, were showcased at the 2022 festival
Full Story
my dad (the architect) taught me years ago that the piece that attaches the seat to the back is different. it's up higher in the thornets.
thanks for this ideabook. love these chairs. nice job.