The 1960s opened the door for trailblazing ideas, provocative designs and a new perspective towards everyday living. Few designers matched the aesthetic genius of modern furniture as well as Erwine & Estelle Laverne. We celebrate this iconic design duo’s flower chairs with the arrival of Spring.
The Ying and Yang of Interior Design
Hans Hoffman, the renown artist, was instrumental in bringing the pair of designers together. Erwine and Estelle were both studying under the direction of Hoffman in 1932 and quickly discovered their mutual interests. Hans had been featured in the Art Students League's journal for his exceptional essay on how "space is filled with movement." Married in 1934, Erwine & Estelle Laverne were greatly inspired by this concept as seen in their Daffodil (Jonquil) Chair -Lotus Chair -Lily Chair creations.
Futuristic Furniture
Made of Lucite or Acrylic, the Invisibles selection of furniture pieces is the most iconic of all the Laverne's work. The clear polished material was a new technique of the Mid-Century Modern period.
Appearing lighter than air, but substantial in form and durability, the chairs seemed to dance with invisible form in the space of a room.
Chair Bouquet
The Daffodil (Jonquil) Chair - Lotus Chair - Lily Chair are still revered today and amazingly beautiful.
Daffodil Chair - Short and wide, like a spring-opened daffodil, this chair is barely visible except for a small padded seat cushion. Inconspicuous in a room filled with people, it suddenly takes form when the function of seating is needed.
Lotus Chair – Graceful curves molded from lacquered fiberglass gives the illusion of being cradled in lotus flower petals, set on chrome-plated steel base with the open curved design. Perfect for many of today's unconventional styles.
Lily Chair - This teardrop Lucite chair features a high back and wide seat. Just as a clear water drop can hang in suspended array, so does this 1959 icon that is still popular today.
Inspiring Today’s Designs
The Laverne’s designs are not as readily accessible today compared to designs from other mid-century counterparts, as their designs were never mass produced. Erwine & Estelle Laverne products are available mostly through auction houses and vintage furniture dealers, truly pieces greatly cherished and of high value because of their rarity.
