Master Class - Eero Saarinen (USA, 1910-1961)

When you talk about iconic modern pieces of furniture the discussion basically starts with this man, Eero Saarinen. He was the one who first brought truly modern furniture to the American public. Born in Finland, his father was a well known and respected architect, and the family migrated to the United States when he was only 13. He grew up in Bloomfield Hills, Mi and went on to attend Cranbrook Academy of Art. His classmates included Charles and Ray Eames and Florence Knoll.

He first made his name when he won recognition with his friend Charles Eames for a design of the Tulip Chair for Organic home Furnishings Show in 1940. This design, like all of his others were ultimately put into production by Knoll furniture and thereby presented to the American public.

Other chairs that he produced for Knoll were, the Grasshopper Lounge and ottoman, The “Womb” series which included a lounge and ottoman, a settee, as well as side and arm chairs. It was the “Tulip” series that went on to become his most iconic designs otherwise known as the pedestal group it include side and arm chairs, as well as dining, coffee and side tables. It was the grasshopper that while critically acclaimed, never reached the point of a commercial success.

While his achievements in furniture design still linger today, he will always be remembered for his contribution to the world of modern Architecture. The TWA building at JFK Airport, the Dulles International Airport in Virginia and of course the St Louis Arch are all reminders of this design legend.