Vitra Aluminium Group
The Aluminium Group offers a diverse range of models suitable for homes, offices, and public spaces. With various aluminum base options—polished, chrome-plated, or black powder-coated—and a wide selection of fabric or leather upholstery colors, there’s an ideal Aluminium Chair for every setting. Vitra has maintained the same exceptional quality in its production of Aluminium Group chairs for decades, enabling them to provide a 30-year warranty* on these iconic pieces. Designed by Charles and Ray Eames, this collection has been continuously produced since its debut in 1958. Originally created for industrialist J. Irwin Miller’s private residence, the chairs were designed to combine outdoor durability with indoor elegance. The Eameses achieved a minimalist yet ergonomic design by using tensioned fabric or leather stretched over a lightweight aluminum frame, eliminating the need for a bulky internal structure.
Key Features of the Aluminium Group
Innovative Use of Materials: The chairs employ a lightweight but durable aluminum frame, which was an innovative material choice at the time, lending the chairs their sleek, modern appearance. The fabric or leather is stretched between the aluminum ribs, creating a firm but flexible seat that adapts to the user’s body.
Ergonomic Design: The chairs are designed to provide long-term comfort. The backrest, which is higher than many other chairs of its era, offers support to the lower back. Some models also include adjustable features to adapt to different sitting positions.
Timeless Aesthetic: The clean, minimalist design, combined with high-quality materials, makes the Aluminium Group timeless. The chairs are available in a range of upholstery options (fabric, leather, mesh) and a variety of colors, allowing for customization to suit different spaces.
Craftsmanship by Vitra: Vitra, a renowned Swiss manufacturer, has been producing the Aluminium Group chairs since the 1950s, maintaining the high-quality standards set by the Eameses. Vitra has ensured that the design remains relevant while offering slight modern updates, such as new upholstery options and advanced ergonomics.
Sustainability: Vitra has also focused on making the Aluminium Group chairs sustainable by using recyclable materials and maintaining an eco-friendly production process.
Legacy and Influence
The Aluminium Group chairs have influenced office and residential furniture design globally. Their lightweight construction, combined with durability and aesthetic appeal, set new standards in the furniture industry. The chairs have found a place in prestigious settings worldwide, including corporate boardrooms, art galleries, and private residences, solidifying their status as design classics.
Charles & Ray Eames
Explore the history of designers Charles and Ray Eames. Often referred to as a twentieth-century interpretation of the nineteenth-century English club chair, this seating instantly became a symbol of comfort. The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman is one of the most significant designs of the 20th century.
