• Charles Eames’ first success came in designing The Organic Chair (with famed architect Eero Saarinen) for a Museum of Modern Art competition in 1939. That design was geared toward creating affordable furniture for customers seeking livable, modern, familial decor. Initially, this proved a difficult task as Eames’ chair cost $75 in a time when most American families made $10,000 a year. Despite the difficulties, the Eameses were determined to drive down the cost.

    After dedicated effort the Eameses were able to minimize production overhead, and developed their plywood molding with military funding and a partnership with Herman Miller. This economical ethos stayed with the Eameses throughout their career as they attempted to create well-designed furniture that was relatively affordable for the average consumer. Charles Eames stated that he had little interest in securing patents on his furniture. When asked about the copying of his famous designs, Eames remarked that the only frauds he worried about were “the bad copies, when your idea is used in a boobie way.” As long as their work wasn’t compromised, profit was not the Eameses primary concern.

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