The Molded Fiberglass Shell
Arguably one of the 20th century’s most beloved designs, the Eames Shell chairs remain a sought after design classic nearly 55 years later. The molded fiberglass chairs are the result of Charles and Ray’s 6 years of experimenting with molded plywood to create a single shell form. Unable to successfully create the single shell with molded plywood at the time, Charles & Ray saw an opportunity to fulfill their vision using a new material: fiberglass.
Charles Eames famously said, “The role of the designer is that of a very good, thoughtful host anticipating the needs of his guests.” The Molded Shell Chairs fulfill a universal response to what one wants in a chair: so that it could fit everybody and any context; a chair that would be equally at home in a museum, living or dining room, business or office.
The Eames Molded Fiberglass Side Chairs, first designed in 1950, continues to be extremely versatile and durable. The Stacking Base allows multiple chairs to stack together to create a functional, space saving tower while the attractive Wire Base and 4-Leg Bases continue to offer timeless simplicity.
Eco-Friendly Fiberglass
Prior to Ray’s passing away in 1988, she had become concerned with the way the original Molded Fiberglass Chairs manufacturing process worked — particularly how the material evaporated into the atmosphere — so she started the process of discontinuing the chair. Until 2014, the only Authentic Eames Fiberglass Chairs available on the market were vintage.
Thanks to a new proprietary process of producing fiberglass, Herman Miller is once again able to produce the Eames original 1950 Molded Fiberglass Chair safely by means of a less volatile, monomer-free dry bind process. Resulting in a healthier earth as well as safer work environment for Herman Miller employees.
Herman Miller, in their ongoing commitment to reaching a zero operational footprint, offers a Take Back program. The fiberglass chairs are 98% recyclable. Although we are sure you will love your Eames Fiberglass chairs for decades to come.
