Nov29
There are many integral factors that should be considered when making key decisions about Mid-Century Modern designs. Color, size, shape, “feel”, and price should all be appropriately weighed in the mind of the consumer, but this quick story from the education of a well-known Harvard trained architect illustrates that there will always be unanticipated variables. As a side-note, the teacher discussed below is the famous Walter Gropius, who is regarded as a pioneering master of modern architecture.
“My mentor was Gropius, whose ideas were comparable to those of Mies van der Rohe (designer of the famous Barcelona chair). It’s rather sad, but after all my time at the feet of the master, the first thing that comes to mind all these years later is that silly conversation about the entrance stair to one of my building designs.”
“I designed free ‘floating’ concrete entrance stairs with steel reinforcing bars and an open area underneath. I thought it was quite sculptural and added to the overall lightness of the approach. When Gropius came for his critique he pulled at his eyebrow and contemplated my efforts for what seemed like an eternity. He then stated these immortal words which have been seared into my memory in his Germanic accented voice: ‘Roy do not do ‘dis – dogs will get under there and fornicate!’”
“These were hardly the words expected from a guy who to me was a near deity, but I have cherished them ever since. As far as I know, no dogs have ever had illicit carnal affairs under one of my structures.”
This is the first part of several amusing anecdotes that we are gathering directly from the memories of key figures in the colorful history of modern design. Please check back for another quirky true story.
Oct24
Receive a FREE Eileen Gray accent table with the purchase of any accent chair or chaise of $499 or more!
Eileen Gray Adjustable Table
Eileen Gray Accent Table
The Eileen Gray Table was designed for Eileen Gray’s famous E. 1027 house in Cap Martin, which highlights the rational designs for which Gray later gained notoriety. Originally the Eileen Gray Table was designed to enable one of Gray’s sisters to indulge in her love of eating in bed, the Eileen Gray design complements any space as a side/end table, bedside table or reception area table. This Eileen Gray Table is adjustable and finished in a brilliant triple chrome.Eileen Gray was fairly neglected for most of her career, but is now regarded as one of the most influential 20th century designers and architects. Famous for classics such as the Bibendum Chair, which typifies Gray’s opulent take on the stark modernist aesthetic, she now has earned the recognition she so deserved.Eileen Gray will be remembered for her unique ability to design furniture using a wide variety of materials. Her use of wood, steel glass and lacquer to create geometrically abstract objects was magnificent. Though much of her ability was unnoticed during her lifetime, many of Eileen Gray’s works are available as reproductions.
Scientific precision defines the Eileen Gray table, which brings modern design into focus with a confident flair. The circular, beveled glass tabletop is surrounded by sleek metal tubing, and mirrored by a horseshoe of the same material which keeps the table planted firmly on the ground.A rectangular tower supports the whole piece, rising above the tabletop to contribute a jaunty attitude. Perfect for a bright, modern home with a taste for high-class minimalism, this table keeps you ahead of the curve.
Aug18
This! Won’t happen frequently, if ever. The $1,345 Pavillion 3 Seater bench in full aniline whiskey leather has been cut to $945. We’re not mathematicians, but that’s a huge savings. Catch is, there is only 1available and ready to ship. Will it be yours?
