Own a true icon of modern design
Like all classics, the chair and ottoman get better with age, in part because of how they are made. From the innovative hardware that fastens the cushions to the shell without marring the appearance of the wood to the fact that each piece continues to be assembled by hand, the combination of craft and manufacturing consistency results in pieces that are genuinely authentic.
A universally recognized form
The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman have their origin in Charles and Ray’s investigations into molding plywood and a desire to improve upon a familiar fixture in many living rooms: the lounge chair. Citing the English club chair as inspiration, Charles said he sought to design a modern version of that chair, one that had “the warm receptive look of a well-used first baseman's mitt.” Almost immediately, the design became an icon of American design. Today, these pieces not only live in museums, but continue to offer comfort and style to interiors everywhere.
Unparalleled craftsmanship
Both the chair and ottoman are hand-assembled with great attention paid to the details. Shells are 7-ply veneers. Cushions are individually upholstered and replaceable. The back braces and bases—of both the chair and ottoman—are die-cast aluminum. The chair base has a built-in swivel mechanism. Shock mounts are resilient natural rubber. Stainless steel glides are adjustable.
Expansive, sustainable options
The design of Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman has become so recognizable that its configuration is a registered trademark. That form and the materials used to create the set are an integral part of what it delivers. Today, the chair and ottoman are available in two sizes, a variety of veneers, and a range of upholstery options. Regardless of which options you choose, the same high level of quality and workmanship is guaranteed.
Embracing the latest in material innovation
The design of the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman is rooted in molded plywood, the material innovation of its time. Now comes a new, highly innovative option for upholstery: a bamboo-based alternative to leather that’s soft, durable, and more scratch resistant and colorfast than any other option—including leather. When it comes to materials worthy of a classic, bamboo is a natural.
Offering the finest veneers
An oiled finish is available for walnut and santos palisander veneers. It closely matches the look and feel of the finish used on the original rosewood chair and will need to be maintained with periodic hand oiling. You can also choose the standard, high-performance lacquered plywood shell in all four wood veneers. The lacquered finish requires nothing more than dusting.
The cushions will not flatten or clump over time. As Charles Eames described them, “The leather cushions do have built-in wrinkles to start with, but that is a clue that spells comfort to come, like the warm, receptive look of a well-used first baseman's mitt.” Each hide used for the cushions possesses variations that are a natural occurrence in leather, and each will age to reveal its own unique personality.
The seat is permanently tilted to take the weight off your lower spine and distribute it properly to the back of the chair. The lower cushion piece supports your lower back, so you feel relaxed. The angle supports your chest so that you can be comfortable as you read, watch a movie, or have a conversation.
