null

Reasons Why Saarinen’s Womb Chair is Groundbreaking

Posted by Maureen on Feb 24th 2020

Imagine a chair you could comfortably cuddle into, feeling as if you were sinking into a pile of pillows? Believe it or not… That magnificent chair already exists! It’s highly known worldwide as the Womb Chair, mimicking the cosseting of a womb.This lounge chair was masterfully designed by Eero Saarinen in the mid century modern era.

As a matter of fact, Saarinen came up with the iconic chair due to his beloved friend Florence Knoll’s request. She asked the renowned Finnish/American designer and architect to create a chair “like a great big basket of pillows that I can curl up in,” according to Decoist. And that's exactly what he did!

Even if the fabulous Womb Chair was designed way back in 1948, it still has universal appeal in the 21st century. So, why exactly is that this lounge chair is so groundbreaking? Why is it that it has grown into a loved and recognizable addition to any home? Keep reading… You’ll be intrigued!

Ahead of its Time

Always keen on experiments, Saarinen investigated how exactly comfort may be defined by the shape of any chair, and not by over stuffing cushions - as was the case of chairs back then.Therefore, he decided to use fiberglass, a material not heard of previously,taking his cues from boats built by fiberglass.

In a feat of innovative engineering, the frame of this flawless lounge chair is in fiberglass, molded with foam, while perfectly supported by splayed steel legs. The result? The enveloping sculptural Womb Chair!This iconic lounge chair keeps being the best representation ever of the organic modernist movement and Eero Saarinen’s legacy.

Modernist

Eero Saarinen first gained prominence due to his contribution to American modernist architecture after World War I. Sadly, it wasn’t until he was in his 40s that he was truly taken seriously in the furniture design industry. This is thanks to winning first prize in the Museum of Modern Art’s “Organic Design in Home Furnishings” competition.

After the win, he truly gained recognition as a modernist. He went on to collaborate exclusively with his friend Florence Knoll, while pushing the boundaries of modernism. Saarinen's impact on furniture design is impossible to overstate.

Relaxing

Even if this chair is an ideal fit for the living room, due to its adaptability, it can be used in every room, including as a reading chair. This comfy lounge chair is great for spending a relaxing day on! It can be placed in your reading nook, home office or study room– preferably next a cabinet or bookshelf.

This way, you can sit back and relax while you enjoy your favorite book or one from your to-read pile! Perhaps you may even add a few back-pillowslike the gorgeous ones featured hereto make the sitting experience all the more relaxing. Placing a desk lamp would also enhance the reading experience.

Iconic

The Womb Chair, a mid century modern design icon, is one of Saarinen’s top works out there. It remains truly iconic to this day! If you're trying to add an iconic vibe to your home without breaking the bank, whether it's a house, apartment or loft, you should go for a replica of this type of lounge chair. This statement-making furniture piece is so unique that it’s perfect not only for homes, but alsofor commercial spaces such as offices, restaurants, hotels, airport lounges, spas and more.

Colorful and Creative

Did you know we’re constantly surrounded by well defined, clean lines in the world? Varying colors, textures and geometric patterns arean absolute must in order to create interiors that are highly engaging.And, the curvy design of the chair shaped like a womb offers that much needed contrast!

The chair itself as a whole is contemporary and compact in formdespite its round shape. It’s this enveloping shape that brings together elegance and coziness, making the Womb Chair truly sought-after and inimitable.Doesn't this bright red lounge chair superbly accent the minimalist space?

Comfortable

The anthropometry and body of the Womb Chair and ottoman have been masterfully created to make them the pinnacle of comfort. It’s trendy and stylish by default,but once you’ve actually had a chance to try it, you’ll realize it's incredibly comfortable too.Therefore, we recommend setting the up pair of lounge chair and ottoman in spaces that relaxing is required – in your reading nook, next to a fireplace, bedroom or even in front of a window.

Works as Accent Piece

Thanks to the way this chair is designed, it also works as an exemplary accent chair.It’s sophisticated, classy, and yet one-of-a-kind enoughthat it’d be perfect for accenting a range of interior decor styles. It can make a statement in vintage, retro and eclectic interior decor styles with patterned upholstery.

It would bring tasteful contrastin minimal, contemporary and modern spaces with plain upholstery. Doesn't this hot fuchsia Womb Chair truly accent this neutral setting? And, it beautifully blends with the plush rug!

Functional

The sense of frugality is one of the trademarks of the great mid century designer Saarinen. In the American furniture scene at that time it’s highly known that he hated the ‘slum of legs’. He made it a point to ensure that his designs put ergonomics above else and were distinct, as well as aesthetically pleasing. The Womb Chair’s pencil thin legs are an excellent case in the point! Even if it offers comfort, it’s sculptural quality makes it a standout addition to every room in the house.

Long-Lasting Appeal

Even if it was designed way back in 1948, this chair has the same appeal as it had in the 1940s. Whether it's just the chair or the chair plus the ottoman, it can still be seen in homes worldwide, no matter their decor style. Not only is this iconic piece highly adaptable, fitting in with different styles like retro, industrial, modern or even classical, it also has a long-lasting appeal.

That’s why Womb Chair reproductions are still being manufactured by different renowned furniture retailers, including ourselves with success. Retailing at only $1,299, our Womb Chair and ottoman reproduction is a faithful representation of Saarinen’s creation for the mid century modern design movement in the United States.


As you can see, there are a lot of reasons why you should consider the groundbreaking Womb Chair replica from Manhattan Home Design to furnish your home. You won’t just be investing in a random furniture piece -you’ll be investing in timeless style and long-lasting comfort. It'll instantly elevate your home!

Pre-Order

A pre-order is manufactured just for you or is in the process of being manufactured and allows you to save 40% since we can cut out any storage and warehousing fees.
Our specialized team will start handcrafting it for you and deliver it in just 2-12 weeks. The lead time should show on the page next to the Pre-Order option, feel free to chat with us to confirm it. The standard in the furniture industry is over 20 weeks.
If you have any questions, our team will guide you through the ordering process.

TESTIMONIALS

The team was a pleasure to work with - customer service, workmanship, and quality are outstanding. 8 weeks lead time is actually fast for the furniture industry!
-Suzanne Palmer

Being able to customize the color of my furniture was key for us. We placed a custom order, got the colors we needed, and saved big compared to in-stock items. Great experience overall, 12 weeks was worth it!
-Richard Eaton

PRE-ORDER POLICIES

Custom-made items are put in production within 48 hours after the order is placed.
Pre-orders are not able to be returned or refunded based on buyer’s remorse.
The following terms will apply:

  • Full payment is required for pre-orders.
  • Order can be cancelled within 48 hours without fees.
  • After 48 hours, cancellations will require a 20% fee from the customer.
  • After two (2) weeks a pre-order is placed, the order cannot be canceled, and ManhattanHomeDesign.com will have the full right to receive full payment for the order placed for the pre-order item.