Category: Furniture Design, Chair
Contributor: Olivier Blanc
Designer: Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, Charlotte Perriand
Year: 1928
Manufacturer: Cassina
Further research:
- Le Corbusier
- Charlotte Perriand
- 522 Tokyo Lounge Chair
- Furniture design
LC4 Chaise Longue, in the background 522 Tokyo Lounge Chair by Charlotte Perriand.
The LC4 chaise longue is a one-of-a-kind furniture piece that flawlessly combines form and function. It comprises a curved steel base that supports the mobile top section. This top section includes a leather cushion attached to a steel frame, which is adjustable to several postures to accommodate different sitting or lying positions.
The materials used in the design of this chaise longue add to its iconic style and status. The steel base (physically and visually sturdy and strong) complements well aesthetically the leather cushion (which adds a touch of lightness, comfort and durability). This combination of chrome steel, leather and atypical shape at the time make the LC4 chaise longue a hallmark of modern furniture.
© Illustration by Olivier Blanc
The LC4 chaise longue has remained famous and well-regarded over time. Its stylish, efficient and modern design makes it timeless. Through time LC4 has effortlessly continued inspiring contemporary furniture designers, who often pay homage to its iconic design with their reinterpretations of the piece.
Charlotte Perriand once said, "The LC4 is an early example of a machine for relaxation, reflecting the objective of the era - to offer more comfort to life. This is the idea behind my design, that it should be an object that would aid relaxation and meditation, to help people slow down." The thought behind that explanation perfectly captures the essence of the LC4 chaise longue while "Form follows function" takes on its full meaning there. LC4 is a designed piece of furniture and a machine for relaxation also.
LC4 chaise longue is an iconic piece of furniture that has stood the test of time. With its quality materials and aesthetically pleasing shape, it is relevant to underline that its unique design is still in production today.
References:
Ruegg, A. (2014). Le Corbusier: Furniture and Interiors 1905-1965. University of Chicago Press
Barsac, J. (2014). Charlotte Perriand: Complete Works. Volume 1: 1903-1940. Scheidegger
William J R Curtis. (2015). Le Corbusier: Ideas & Forms. Phaidon