RAY AND CHARLES EAMES: THE POWER COUPLE WHO RULED DESIGN — Quick Facts
Charles & Ray Eames built a design empire from their Venice Beach garage, creating iconic furniture, films & the legendary Case Study House that still influences how we live today.
Key Data Points
- Charles (1907-1978) and Ray (1912-1988) Eames transformed from failed architect and abstract artist to the most influential design duo of the 20th century
- Their Venice Beach studio at 901 Washington Boulevard was ground zero for iconic furniture like the Lounge Chair, revolutionary films like Powers of Ten, and the legendary Case Study House #8
- Ray's graphic design genius powered the Eames visual identity while Charles became the public face, creating everything from wartime leg splints to luxury loungers that still command $6,000+ today
Frequently Asked
- Who were Ray and Charles Eames and what did they design?
- Ray (1912-1988) and Charles (1907-1978) Eames were an influential husband-and-wife design duo who created iconic 20th-century furniture like the Eames Lounge Chair, revolutionary films like Powers of Ten, and Case Study House #8. They transformed from a failed architect and abstract artist into the most influential design team of their era, working from their Venice Beach studio at 901 Washington Boulevard.
- How did Ray and Charles Eames meet?
- Ray Kaiser and Charles Eames met at Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1940, where Charles was teaching and Ray was studying to expand her artistic vision. They collaborated on a MoMA competition entry that won first prize, married in June 1941, and moved to Los Angeles together to pursue their design ambitions.
- What was the Eames Lounge Chair and how much does it cost?
- The Eames Lounge Chair was one of their most iconic furniture designs that revolutionized luxury furniture design. Original and contemporary versions of the Eames Lounge Chair still command prices of $6,000 and above, making it one of the most coveted designer pieces in the world.
- What did the Eames design during World War II?
- During World War II, the Eameses pivoted their plywood molding expertise to create leg splints for the U.S. Navy, replacing problematic metal versions that were causing gangrene infections. This military contract provided crucial funding for their furniture experiments and helped establish their reputation.
- What was Ray Eames' role in the design partnership?
- Ray Eames was the graphic design genius who powered the Eames visual identity and brand, while Charles became the public face of the partnership. Together they created everything from wartime medical equipment to luxury furniture, films, and architectural projects from their Venice Beach studio.