Charles was an architect, and Ray was an artist. Charles and Ray Eames were a married couple who worked as a design duo in their time. Together, both of them made significant contributions to modern furniture design.

Before we get into their notable furniture design pieces, design philosophy, and notable quotes, here are some facts about Charles and Ray Eames:

  • Charles Eames: Born in 1907, died 1978. Architect-trained.
  • Ray Eames: Born in 1912 as Bearnice Alexandra Kaiser, died 1988. Abstract painter.
  • Charles & Ray Eames Married: 1941
  • Charles & Ray Eames Style: Industrial Design
  • Charles & Ray Eames House: Eames House, 203 N. Chautauqua Blvd. Pacific Palisades, California
  • Famous For: Chairs, modern design philosophy
  • Also Known For: Their three-month-long trip around India in 1958

What did Charles and Ray Eames design?

Together, the American husband and wife team created some of the most iconic mid-century designs, including the ubiquitous:

  • Eames LCW lounge chair wood (1946)
  • Eames La Chaise (1948)
  • Eames Molded Plastic Side Chair (1950)
  • Eames lounge chair and ottoman (1956)
  • “Hang it all” coat rack (1953)
  • Eames House (1949)

Charles and Ray Eames Design Philosophy

Their designs combine art, science, architecture, and style, and the couple is known for their commitment to hard work and sense of humour.

According to the Eames office, the couple’s designs were “high-quality products from readily available, often industrial, materials to the masses.”

Their designs were easily reproduced, and had a sense of what Charles Eames deemed the “way-it-should-be-ness”.

Charles and Ray Eames’ design philosophy was best encapsulated in one of their most famous quotes: “What works good is better than what looks good, because what works good lasts.”

10 Best Charles and Ray Eames Quotes

Here are some of the most memorable quotes from the legendary Eames couple.

“We want to make the best for the most for the least.” – Charles Eames

Ray Eames Quotes: 10 Best quotes about Charles & Ray Eames' design philosophy (Photo Eames Office)
Ray Eames Quotes: 10 Best quotes about Charles & Ray Eames’ design philosophy (Photo Eames Office)

“What works good is better than what looks good, because what works good lasts.” – Ray Eames

The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman (1965)

“Design depends largely on constraints.” – Charles and Ray Eames

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“The most important thing is that you love what you are doing, and the second that you are not afraid of where your next idea will lead.” – Charles Eames

Eames plastic chair, plastic chair, coloured chair, furniture, home furniture

“The details are not the details, the details make the product.” – Charles and Ray Eames

“Toys are not really as innocent as they look. Toys and games are precursors to serious ideas.” – Charles Eames

“Genius? Nothing – we just worked harder.” – Charles Eames

“Take your pleasure seriously.” – Charles and Ray Eames

“The role of the designer is that of a very good thoughtful host anticipating the needs of his guests.” – Charles Eames

eamesplasticarmchair

“It is almost impossible to reconcile self-expression with the creative act.” – Charles Eames