Celebrating the 70th anniversary of a design icon explored through a prototype, material studies and insights into the Eameses’ creative process.
The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman at 70
This year marks 70 years since the introduction of the iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. The design holds a special place among the Eameses’ designs as one of their most coveted works. The piece remains a defining expression of comfort, craftsmanship and thoughtful innovation, continuing to inspire generations of designers, collectors and design enthusiasts around the world.
Designed by Ray and Charles Eames in 1956, the Lounge Chair and Ottoman combine the warmth of natural materials with advanced manufacturing techniques, offering the comfort of a well-used baseball glove with the refinement of a traditional English club chair.
From the beginning, the Eameses’ design process was grounded in experimentation, prototyping and a deep understanding of materials. Early studies explored the possibilities of moulded plywood, while careful refinement of the chair’s structure, connections and finishes resulted in the final form we know today.
Prototype and final design comparison
Drag across the image or use the left and right arrow keys to compare the prototype with the final design.
In an early prototype made in 1945, the chair’s concept is already recognisable, featuring moulded plywood parts, including the broad seat, reclining back and arms in place.
For the first product brochure Ray and Charles Eames wrote:
The upholstered lounge chair and ottoman are a combination intended to give comfort for long periods of time such as reading or conversation after dinner or just relaxing and thinking. Size and relationships of the parts are most important…all of the parts are allowed a bit of movement in relation to each other.
The Lounge Chair’s iconic shape comes from the combination of moulded plywood, soft leather upholstery and sleek aluminium details. Every element is designed with both comfort and style in mind. The rich wood veneer adds warmth and character, while the carefully crafted construction allows the chair and ottoman to move naturally with the body for a comfortable, relaxed sit.
For Ray and Charles Eames, every detail mattered. Their philosophy centred on the relationship between materials, manufacturing and human experience, believing that great design should enhance everyday life.
The details are not details—they make the product.
Charles Eames
In the years after its launch, the chair quickly gained international recognition, including receiving the Grand Prize at the 1957 Triennale di Milano. Seven decades later, it remains in production, a testament to the timeless quality of its design and the continued relevance of the Eameses’ vision.
Today, the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman remains a favourite. A true icon of thoughtful craftsmanship and style, the design continues to feel as relevant and inspiring today as it did when it was first introduced.