Atlas of Furniture Design: A Comprehensive Guide to Iconic Furniture Pieces

If you’re a design enthusiast or furniture lover, you’ll be excited to learn about the Atlas of Furniture Design. This comprehensive book is an encyclopedic reference guide to the history of furniture design, with over 1,700 objects documented by 546 designers and 565 manufacturers. Featuring more than 2,500 images, including detailed object photographs, interiors, patents, brochures, and historical documentation, the Atlas of Furniture Design is the most extensive collection of furniture design ever published.

The book covers a range of subjects spanning a period from early industrialisation to the digital age, providing insights into the socio-cultural and design-historical contexts of furniture design. With over 1,000 pages, the Atlas of Furniture Design is an essential tool for anyone interested in the history of furniture design, from students and scholars to design professionals and collectors.

Key Takeaways

• The Atlas of Furniture Design is an encyclopedic reference tool for the history of furniture design, featuring over 1,700 objects documented by 546 designers and 565 manufacturers.
• The book covers a range of subjects spanning a period from early industrialisation to the digital age, providing insights into the socio-cultural and design-historical contexts of furniture design.
• With over 1,000 pages and more than 2,500 images, the Atlas of Furniture Design is an essential tool for design enthusiasts, students, scholars, professionals, and collectors.

The Evolution of Furniture Design

Furniture design has evolved over the centuries, with each historical epoch contributing to the development of new styles, materials, and techniques. In this section, you will learn about the historical milestones and iconic designers who have shaped the history of furniture design.

Historical Milestones

Furniture design has always been influenced by the design-historical context of the time. In the 19th century, the Art Nouveau movement emerged, which was characterized by its organic shapes and ornamental designs. This style was followed by the modernism movement, which was characterized by its clean lines and functional designs.

In the post-war era, furniture design became more experimental, with designers exploring new materials and techniques. The secessionist movement emerged in Austria, which was characterized by its geometric shapes and use of new materials such as steel and glass. Postmodernism followed, which was characterized by its playful designs and use of bright colours.

Today, contemporary furniture design is characterized by its focus on sustainability and innovation. Designers are using new materials such as recycled plastic and bamboo to create environmentally-friendly furniture.

Iconic Designers and Their Works

Many designers have left their mark on the history of furniture design. Le Corbusier, Gerrit Rietveld, and Charlotte Perriand were pioneers of classical modernism, which was characterized by its functional designs and use of new materials such as tubular steel.

Marcel Breuer, Charles and Ray Eames, and Eero Saarinen were influential designers in the post-war era, creating iconic designs such as the Wassily Chair, the Eames Lounge Chair, and the Tulip Chair.

Finn Juhl, Philippe Starck, Konstantin Grcic, and Marcel Wanders are among the contemporary designers who have made significant contributions to the world of furniture design. Their designs are characterized by their innovative use of materials and their unique aesthetic.

Achille Castiglioni and Jochen Eisenbrand are design legends who have left a lasting impact on the world of furniture design. Castiglioni’s designs were characterized by their playful and whimsical nature, while Eisenbrand’s designs were characterized by their simplicity and functionality.

In conclusion, furniture design has come a long way since its inception. From the ornamental designs of the Art Nouveau movement to the functional designs of classical modernism, furniture design has evolved to reflect the changing times. Today, contemporary designers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, creating innovative designs that are both functional and beautiful.

Design Elements and Manufacturing

Materials and Techniques

When it comes to furniture design, the choice of materials and techniques is crucial. The Atlas of Furniture Design showcases a wide range of materials used in furniture design, from traditional wood and metal to more modern materials. Design sketches and prototypes are also featured, giving you an insight into the design process.

Bentwood technology, where wood is steamed and bent into shape, is a technique that has been used for centuries and is still popular today. Metalworking techniques such as welding and casting are also commonly used in furniture design.

Industry and Craftsmanship

The industrialisation of furniture manufacturing has had a significant impact on the industry. The Atlas of Furniture Design highlights the shift towards mass production and the role of manufacturers in the production process.

However, craftsmanship and the handmade approach are still valued in the profession, especially in the production of high-end and collector’s items. The Atlas features examples of both industrial and handmade furniture, showcasing the diversity of the profession.

With the rise of digital technology, furniture design has also evolved. Computer-aided design (CAD) is now commonly used in the design process, allowing for more precise and complex designs.

The Vitra Design Museum has played a significant role in promoting furniture design and showcasing the work of designers and manufacturers. The Atlas of Furniture Design is a testament to the museum’s dedication to the profession.

Overall, furniture design is a complex and diverse profession, with a rich history and a bright future. Whether you are a collector, manufacturer, or simply have an interest in design, the Atlas of Furniture Design is an essential resource that provides a comprehensive overview of the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find a comprehensive review of the Atlas of Furniture Design?

You can find comprehensive reviews of the Atlas of Furniture Design on various online platforms. The Design Museum and Vitra Design Museum websites offer detailed descriptions of the book’s contents, as well as reviews from experts in the field. Additionally, book review websites such as BookScouter.com provide user reviews and ratings of the book.

Is there a way to access the Atlas of Furniture Design for free?

Unfortunately, the Atlas of Furniture Design is not available for free. However, many public libraries have copies of the book available for loan. Additionally, some universities and design schools may have copies available for students to access.

What are some highly recommended books on furniture design for practical use?

If you’re interested in furniture design and looking for practical resources, some highly recommended books include “The Furniture Bible” by Christophe Pourny, “Furniture Design: An Introduction to Development, Materials and Manufacturing” by Stuart Lawson, and “Furniture Design and Construction for the Interior Designer” by Christopher Natale.

Can I purchase a used copy of the Atlas of Furniture Design, and if so, where?

Yes, you can purchase used copies of the Atlas of Furniture Design from various online retailers such as Amazon and eBay. Additionally, some second-hand bookstores may have copies available for purchase.

Are there any online platforms where I can discuss the Atlas of Furniture Design with fellow enthusiasts?

Yes, there are several online platforms where you can discuss the Atlas of Furniture Design with fellow enthusiasts. Some popular platforms include Reddit’s r/furnituredesign subreddit, the Design Addict forum, and Houzz’s furniture design discussion board.

What similar resources to the Atlas of Furniture Design are available in PDF format?

While the Atlas of Furniture Design is not available in PDF format, there are several other resources available online that cover similar topics. Some examples include “A History of Furniture” by Frederick Litchfield, “Furniture Design and Construction” by Graham Blackburn, and “The Complete Illustrated Guide to Furniture and Cabinet Construction” by Andy Rae. These resources can be found on online bookstores such as Amazon and Google Books.