Splurge or Save? Eames Dowel-Leg Chairs

 

Designed in 1948 by husband and wife Charles & Ray Eames, the Eames Dowel-Leg Side Chair is a classic piece in the oeuvre of American design.  Its provenance is mid-century, yet the chair has such a simple and timeless look that it has been a favorite in interiors around the world since its debut, through to today.

When it comes to a versatile and iconic item like this, an eternal question is: splurge or save?

 

What to do?

Before we decide, let’s get a feel for how the chair might look in a few more settings.  In the opening image above, the chairs augment the relaxed and airy aesthetic of an Australian summer home.

Now with floral wallpaper, a chandelier, and a chest filled with silver and crystal, they add to the English femininity of the space.

 

Here, in a Provencal country house with exposed beams and distressed finishes, the Eames chairs contribute to the rustic charm.

 

In a family-friendly townhouse, the chairs provide architectural detail to enhance the spare space.

 

 

 And in a European great room, the chairs are an elegant match for an understated-chic abode.

 

…Time to weigh in: splurge or save?

 

Images / 1 / Interior Design: Doherty Lynch, via Est Magazine / 2 / Sarah Sarna / 3 / Interior Designer: Elvira Gonzalez, via Push Palate,  via Nuevo Estilo magazine online/4 /Pin Roof’s pinterest board, via Côté Maison / 5 / Photographer: Annie Schlechter, via Solid Frog / 6 / Push Palate /