3 comments Room by Room – the Eames Storage Unit
by Modern Simplicity
07/30/09
As we head into the home stretch before another school year, Room by Room with FormFire Glassworks looks into storage possibilities, and examines the Eames Storage Unit, or ESU 420.
This version of the texture-filled storage unit was introduced in 1952 through Herman Miller my Charles and Ray Eames. The Eames’ preoccupation with modular pieces and strong influence of the Japanese aesthetic led them to the design of this piece that has stood the test of time. It allows for many different options, including doors, drawers, plywood, metal and brightly-colored lacquered panels. The Japanese sense of balance and proportion of closed and open spaces makes this a pleasing tableau even without the insertion of decor and everyday items. It is said to be the first modern storage piece where the metal bracing was exposed as an integral part of the design. It is currently available in multiple heights and widths from Modernica.
The materials and simple balance of geometry and volume were the inspiration for my handmade accessory choices. A plywood mobile echoes the panel materials as well as the circular pressed plywood motif. A set of photo cubes pulls from the rectangular nature of the storage system. The geometry and light feeling of the steel struts is visible in a red fused glass platter, while a tiny ceramic dish becomes a simple, yet hidden treasure in the open cubbies. Breaking the mold while continuing the wood tones is a pencil sculpture that adds some motion to the scene.
Next week I will choose a new iconic piece and give you my picks for accessorizing your modern home.
This entry is filed under ceramic, decor, dish, eames, ESU 420, FFGW, formfire, formfire glassworks, fused glass, handmade, mid century, mobile, modern, pencil, photo cubes, platter, room by room, roombyroom, sculpture, storage.
you have such a nice website/blog! keep it up! i love it.
Melissa commented on July 30th, 2009 at 12:46 pmI just have to say that I am so happy you featured this little ceramic dish from Paloma’s Nest! I ordered 8 of her “Thank You” dishes to give as bridesmaid/mom of bride gifts for my wedding. Not only is Caroline’s work beautiful, but she is as sweet as can be!
Kitty commented on July 31st, 2009 at 10:48 pm[...] and full post available on paper n stitch. Posted by admin on Thursday, July 30, 2009, at 4:09 pm. Filed under paper n stitch. Tagged Blog, [...]
FormFire Glassworks : Modern Icons - the Eames Storage Unit commented on February 5th, 2010 at 7:11 pm