Designers & Architects
Le Corbusier
Born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris to a watchmaker in Switzerland, Le Corbusier, a Swiss-French architect, donned many hats.
Born Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris on October 6, 1887, to a watchmaker in Switzerland, Le Corbusier (pronounced lə KOR-boo-ZYAY, - SYAY) took on this pseudonym in 1920, after moving to Paris.
This historic Swiss-French architect, donned many hats but his greatest contribution to the world was in the field of urban planning. He was also an artist (he called his style “purism”), a designer, a writer and a brilliant polemicist! Le Corbusier planned and designed the city of Chandigarh in India and was the architect behind a few buildings there as well.
His aesthetic style was primarily focused on geometric forms and it is reflected in all of his work, whether buildings or art. Reinforced concrete along with steel were the materials of his choice, and the structures were always clean and impactful.
Le Corbusier’s tryst with furniture design began in 1928. His studio debuted a collection of timeless products, that could never go out of style, at the Salon d‘Autumne in Paris in 1930. Here are some personal favourites and his most successful works :
The LC2 Petit Modele Armchair was designed by Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand. This chair was a part of a series, pieces from which were aptly called "cushion baskets" by Le Corbusier's studio. Providing comfort through thick cushions while maintaining the clean, minimal look was the purpose of this iconic armchair. This modern design, is as fresh as it was 90 years back. The contrast of the softness of the cushions pairs well with the steel frame which makes the chair aesthetically appealing.
Also known as "relaxing machine", this simple recliner was created in 1928. Its adjustable structure allows you to go upto full recline from a straight up regular chair. It follows the natural contours of the body hence the name. This beauty is a part of the collection exhibited at MOMA, New York!
This chair is magical. I kid you not. The LC1 Sling chair moves with you when you move in it. It is a great option for those who don't want a recliner or a lounge chair but want the same comfort in less space. A chic addition to living rooms and cafés alike. This chair literally has your back! Made with tubular steel, Le Corbusier's chairs are thoughtfully designed, keeping functionality in mind. They are still widely used and loved for their practicality and no-nonsense look that is devoid of any pretentiousness!
Would you like to know a fun fact? Le Corbusier and his cousin Pierre Jeanneret, co-designed an automobile called Voiture Minimum but it was never mass produced. Hope you enjoyed reading about Le Corbusier and his journey as an influential designer of modern times.