Modernism in America Pt. 2- Furniture - Chapter 23

With this section of modernism in America our powerpoint focuses much more on furniture within America and how influential it is today. Many iconic names and iconic pieces of furniture and design came out of this period. People still seek after these designs from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.

In this modernist era, designers and people were celebrating the end of the war, allowing creativity in multiple different fields to show. Different materials were used, as well as different colors, fabrics, and shapes. Molded plastics, resin, laminates, and plywood were a pushing force for new and different shapes and sizes of furniture. These new techniques brought about a playful, whimsical, bold feeling with furniture and design. New technology even catered to new pieces of furniture. The invention of the television heralded coffee tables galore, even for the average American family.

Mid-century modern became a style most familiar with these times. Flat roofs, angular details, asymmetry, glass walls, clean lines, and open floor plans were the elements that labeled this such style. Popular colors inspired by nature came about -olive green, burnt umber, pumpkin, and mustard yellow. Even edgy colors such as, pink, gray, turquoise, and black were implemented into a design. Joseph Eichler, an architect working in California and inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright rose to fame because of his ability to create effortless design in this style for just the average American family.

Many furniture companies arose to fame with the help of well-known artists, architects, and designers. Knoll, a company that is successful today, enlisted the help of Eero Saarinen. A Finnish/ American architect, Saarinen was not committed to one particular style but catered to the needs and wants of the client. His Tulip chair and Womb chair inspire many pieces of furniture today.

Herman Miller is also a well-known furniture group. Based in Michigan, this company is still going strong today, and is easily one of the world's top leaders in furniture design. George Nelson, the director of this manufacturer, produced timeless designs that people use as inspiration today. Well-known furniture designers, Charles and Ray Eames had multiple products featured in Herman Miller's catalog. From conference tables to molded plastic chairs to coat hangers, the Eames's held a great influence on the lifestyle of the average American.

Design Examples:

An Eichler home that connected the indoors to
the outdoors with the use of an atrium. 

One of Isamu Noguchi's sculptures. This one
specifically calls to how light interacts with color. 

Current Applications:

A current use of Saarinen's Tulip chair. 

Elements of mid-century modern are found
here though color, patter, clean lines, and pointed
wooden furniture legs. 

This home embodies Eichler, who favored
the mid-century modern style as well as a
connection to the outdoors. 

One Step Further:

For forty years, George Nelson was the director of Herman Miller, which is one of the biggest furniture manufacturer's in the world. This company produced designs for the home and the office. Nelson created over 80 designs for Herman Miller. And many of his pieces became iconic for the American style, whether in the home or the office. Nelson's Marshmallow Sofa has become a significant image for modern design, as well as his Bubble Lamp.

Nelson's Marshmallow Sofa is at the center of this view,
overlooking the tranquil waters. His designs were not
just applicable in the office. 

Bubble Lamp designed by Nelson is hung above a dining table.
The image above shows that his designs were interchangeable
with different styles.