mies van der rohe

Find design inspiration from these iconic contemporary designers

Barcelona chair and ottoman designed by Mies van der Rohe  

As every residential and contract designer knows, the world of interior design is a world that is constantly changing.  Several times a year furniture and fabric manufacturers release new collections; Pantone annually releases a new color for the upcoming year and current events dictate the latest trends in style, accessories and the "must have" of the season.  Isn't it nice to know that there are some iconic designers who's styles remain just as pertinent today as the first day they were debuted?

Ray and Charles Eames

The very mention of the name Eames conjures up visions of exquisitely designed mid-century furniture.  Their goal to create functional and affordable furniture resulted in designs that are still desirable today.  This is due, in part, to the vision of the couple.  According to Ray “What works is better than what looks good.”The looks good can change, but what works, works.”  And that still holds true today, some sixty years later.

George Nelson

We can thank George Nelson for the still incredibly popular idea of built-in storage walls e.g. bookcases.  Once he realized that the space in between walls was empty there was no stopping the creativity and the storage wall was born.  He also developed the idea of a large room in the home where the family could gather for meals and recreational activities and, as a result, coined the phrase "family room".

Mies van der Rohe

While an architect by trade, Mies van der Rohe certainly left his mark on interior design as well, particularly in the area of furniture design.  His hallmark was fine craftsmanship, luxurious yet practical fabrics and chrome frames, exemplified by his classic Barcelona chair.

This is obviously a very brief introduction to these iconic designers and their ideas that have endured for decades and illustrates that good design is lasting design.  To view our collection of well-designed architectural hardware, please visit our site at www.martinpierce.com