Champagne Chair by Erwine & Estelle Laverne, USA - 1960s

Description

Champagne Chair designed by American designers Erwine and Estelle Laverne in 1957, featuring a transparent moulded Perspex shell with a continuous backrest and integrated armrests. The shell rests on a polished aluminium pedestal with a circular base, complemented by an original white leather cushion with button-tufted detailing. The contrast between the transparent seat, reflective metal and upholstered cushion brings together three distinct materials within a remarkably restrained construction.

Part of the Invisible Group, introduced in the late 1950s, the Champagne Chair emerged during a period of experimentation with plastics and new furniture production techniques. The Lavernes developed the design in relation to Eero Saarinen's Tulip Chair, extending its single-pedestal concept through the use of transparent acrylic. Their intention was to reduce the visual obstruction created by conventional furniture, allowing the surrounding architecture and interior to remain visible through the chair itself. The Champagne Chair became one of the defining designs of the collection, demonstrating how transparency could fundamentally alter the relationship between furniture and space.

Eight chairs are available, each sold individually. All retain their original white leather cushions, with alternative upholstery fabrics available upon request.

GW4813