Famous Designers & Icons

Eames Lounge Chair

The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1956 and manufactured by Herman Miller, is arguably the most iconic piece of mid-century modern furniture ever created. Conceived as a modern interpretation of the traditional English club chair, it combines molded rosewood (or walnut) plywood shells with plush leather cushions and a cast aluminum base. The chair was an immediate success upon its television debut on NBC's Home show and has remained in continuous production for nearly seven decades. The Eames Lounge Chair's enduring appeal lies in its perfect balance of warmth and modernity, comfort and visual sophistication. It manages to feel both luxurious and approachable, fitting seamlessly into executive offices, museum collections, and family living rooms alike. The chair has appeared in countless films, magazines, and cultural references, becoming a universal symbol of refined modern taste. Its combination of organic materials, engineering precision, and timeless proportions ensures it remains as desirable today as when it debuted.

Key Characteristics

  • Molded plywood shells with leather cushions
  • Cast aluminum five-star base with swivel
  • Designed as a modern club chair for domestic comfort
  • Continuous production by Herman Miller since 1956
  • Available in multiple wood veneers and leather colors
  • Matching ottoman completes the lounging experience

Types & Variations

Classic rosewood veneer with black leather
Walnut veneer with various leather colors
Santos palisander veneer option
Tall size version for larger users
White ash version for lighter interiors

Common Materials

Molded plywood veneer shellsPremium leather upholsteryDie-cast aluminum baseRubber shock mountsHigh-density foam cushionsStainless steel glides

Placement & Usage Tips

Position the Eames Lounge Chair in a corner with good reading light and a small side table for the ultimate relaxation spot. It works beside a fireplace, near a bookshelf, or facing a window with a view. Allow space for the ottoman in front.

💡 Pro Tip

The Eames Lounge Chair develops a beautiful patina over years of use—the leather softens and the wood deepens in color. Choose a location where it will be used daily rather than treated as a display piece. The chair was designed for lived-in comfort, not admiration from afar.