Put your feet up on the Eames lounge chair

A chair that combines elegance and comfort – with this goal in mind, the designers Charles and Ray Eames conceptualized the legendary Lounge Chair in 1956. The functional piece is the epitome of mid-twentieth century progressive furniture design. To this date, Vitra produces the original mid-century classic and has extended the collection with several additional models.

The striking wooden shell is, for example, available in a santos palisander veneer with a reddish wood colour, and in black or white ash veneers. Sitting on the chrome or polished base, the natural wooden material with its texture-rich grain gives the Lounge Chair a rustic but elegant look. A selection of leather covers in black, plum, or brandy, accentuate the sophisticated aesthetics. The design classic can be complemented with a matching ottoman by Vitra –this way, you can put your feet up in style.

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The Panton Chair: Mid-century design manufactured in one piece

When the designer Verner Panton sketched out the Panton Chair in the 1960ties, he created the symbol of an era. Not only did the chairs sculptural shape initiate a design revolution, it was also the first chair completely manufactured out of plastic in a single piece. In 1968, Vitra presented the Panton Chair for the first time at the Cologne furniture fair. Fifty years later, the brand exhibited two limited anniversary editions at the imm cologne 2018. Despite their long design and manufacturing history, these were more futuristic than almost any present-day designer piece.

With its dynamic surface, the new Panton Chrome almost becomes one with its surroundings. A rather spooky interpretation is the Panton Glow. It lets the mid-century classic quite literally appear in a new light: Special layers of lacquer in the chair get charged by daylight and then emit blue light in the dark. The Panton Glow will become available from June 2018 onwards and the Chrome Edition is already available.

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Side Table E1027: Minimalistic design for functional comfort

MThe mid-century design classic Adjustable Table E 1027 by Eileen Gray does not need flashy details or a pretentious name. Instead, the furniture piece captivates with its simple construction, brilliant proportions, and functional sophistication.

The height of the round top of the chrome or powder-coated steel linear structure, is adjustable. The table top comes in clear crystal glass, parsol grey, or black lacquered metal. Fitting with the simple design, the Gira E2 switch series in stainless steel or aluminium complements this mid-century look.

Quelle: SOHO DESIGN / YouTube

The Egg Chair: A mid-century style icon

A classic of this design movement is without a doubt the Egg Chair by Arne Jacobsen. Its silhouette is so distinct that you could already spot the lounge chair just by seeing its shadow. Today, this simple form, paired with its natural materials and a good amount of comfort, is more in demand than ever.

. In 1958, the Danish designer did not only create a timeless mid-century icon but also a forerunner of the modern Scandi Chic. With the foam cover under the upholstery, Jacobsen wanted to try a new technique. These days, the Danish label Fritz Hansen upholsters the chair with rustic leather in natural shades such as brown, beige, or grey. In the chrome base a tilt mechanism is integrated which can be individually adjusted.

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The Starburst chandelier: A magical mid-century accessory

In the 1950ties, the Austrian Emil Stejnar created a whole new range of futuristic chandeliers, ceiling and wall lamps for the Viennese producer Rupert Nikoll. The designer expressed his fascination for the magical cosmos with his designs. His work is characterized by the many delicate crystals and the filigree gold-plated brass construction.

Whether functional, elegant, or comfortable: Mid-century design classics bring together tradition and modernity, remain contemporary, and fit harmoniously into every interior.

What makes the mid-century movement special for you? And which piece do you consider a true classic?

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