Eero Saarinen, born in Finland on August 20, 1910, was a visionary architect who led the avant-garde architectural movement towards sweeping, arching, and simple curves in the United States. His innovative designs revolutionized the way we think about architecture and furniture. From the iconic Grasshopper lounge chair to the timeless Womb chair and ottoman, Saarinen's creations have left an indelible mark on the world of design.
As the son of famed architect Eliel Saarinen, Eero was destined for a career in design. He developed a close friendship with fellow designers Charles and Ray Eames while studying at the Cranbrook Academy of Art, where his father was a teacher. Eero's passion for sculpture led him to Paris, France, where he studied at the Académie de la Grande Chaumière. His time at the Yale School of Architecture further honed his skills and laid the foundation for his future success.
One of Saarinen's most notable achievements was the design of the Crow Island School in Winnetka, Illinois. This groundbreaking project set the standard for modern school architecture and inspired similar designs for decades to come. His proposal for the mall in Washington, D.C., also garnered widespread acclaim and showcased his innovative approach to city planning.
Among Saarinen's most famous furniture designs are the Womb settee, side and arm chairs, and the Tulip or Pedestal group. These pieces showcase his signature use of sweeping curves and minimalist forms. Each design is a testament to his belief that art and architecture should be experienced as a unified whole.
Despite his busy career, Saarinen made time for family. He fathered two children, Eric and Susan, with sculptor Lilian Swann Saarinen. Later in life, he married Aline Bernstein Louchheim, a prominent art critic for The New York Times, with whom he had a son named Eames. Saarinen's family connections extended to other famed architects, including Florence Knoll, with whom he formed lasting friendships.
Eero Saarinen's impact on the world of design cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to architecture and furniture design has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence designers today. From his iconic buildings to his timeless furniture pieces, Saarinen's work embodies the spirit of modernism and remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.