Celebrating its 51th anniversary in 2007, the Eames lounge chair is considered among the most significant and collectible furniture designs of the 20th century. The rich veneer and supple leather suggest old-fashioned luxury translated into modern forms, setting an enduring standard for comfort and elegance. In addition, the lounge chair is now available in a veneer called Santos Palisander that captures the original's unique look.
The Original Look Classic Aesthetic
The lounge chair is available in santos palisander, a lustrous veneer that has the same characteristics as the original color and grain. Environmentally sound. The wood is harvested exclusively from sustainably managed forests.
Classic Comfort
Luxurious feel. The chair has 6-inch-thick urethane foam cushions and rich leather upholstery. A place to relax. The contours of the seat and high back welcome the sitter, and a swivel mechanism is built in.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Attention to detail. All pieces are hand assembled. Durable construction. Shells are seven-ply cherry, natural cherry, walnut, or santos palisander veneer; the base and back braces are die-cast aluminum. Practical features. Cushions are individually upholstered and replaceable; back cushions are interchangeable; shock mounts are resilient natural rubber.
Design Story
The Eames lounge chair is the culmination of Charles and Ray Eames' efforts to create comfortable and handsome lounge seating by using production techniques that combine technology and handcraftsmanship. Its heritage goes back to the molded plywood chairs pioneered by the Eameses in the 1940s, and it's part of the permanent collection of New York's Museum of Modern Art. Charles Eames said his goal for the chair was the "warm, receptive look of a well-used first baseman's mitt." Every one is a special refuge from the strains of modern living. The first lounge chair, produced in 1956, was a birthday gift for friend Billy Wilder, the Academy Award-winning film director, and it made its public debut on Arlene Francis' Home show, which later became the Today show. Every lounge chair manufactured since then has received the same meticulous handcrafted attention.
