Charles and Ray Eames (1907-1978 1912-1988)

“Design is a plan for arranging elements in such a way as best to accomplish a particular purpose. The real questions are: Does it solve a problem? Is it serviceable? How is it going to look in ten years?”

Combining serious fun with rigorous discipline, Charles and Ray(Bernice) Eames enthusiastically explored new ideas and novel forms. Their philosophy can easily be seen in the unique, iconic pieces that are still popular today like the Eames Lounge Chair. The Eames, husband and wife design team, helped form the maxim that harkened in a major design shift in the 1940s and 1950s. The idea that design is for living was revolutionary and the maxim produced entirely new forms. The Eames created furniture that was simple yet sophisticated, utterly functional, lean, modern and not adorned without purpose. Charles and Ray not only designed some of the most significant furniture of the late 20th century, but through the complete body of their work: their films, teaching, writing and their life together in the house they designed in Pacific Palisades, they defined an emotionally expressive, organic approach to design and life.

Charles and Ray Eames were masters of moulded fiberglass seating and bent plywood chairs. "They taught the 20th century how to sit down," The Washington Post once said of Charles and Ray Eames. But more than simply designers of chairs, the Eamessought to fulfill the practical needs of ordinary people with their pieces. Combining art, imagination, exploration and technical innovation, the Eames created some of the most lasting expressions of 20th century design – dining chairs, office chairs, lounges and more that remains salient, fresh and functional today.Charles and Ray Eames showed us thatthoughtful design can improve quality of life.