Archetype Forms 1956 Ottoman: EM

History and Design Significance:

First introduced in 1956, the ottoman was designed alongside the Lounge Chair by Charles & Ray Eames as part of a commission for film director Billy Wilder. Serving as the perfect companion piece to the Lounge Chair, the ottoman complements the chair's ergonomic form while offering a standalone option for comfort and functionality.

Constructed using the same advanced moulding techniques as the chair, the ottoman’s 7-ply plywood shell and high-density foam padding provide a comfortable resting surface for the feet or an impromptu seating solution. Its removable cushion is designed to fit the chair’s seat, allowing rotation between the two pieces for even wear—demonstrating the Eameses' attention to practicality and durability.

Upon its release, the Lounge Chair & Ottoman received critical acclaim for their comfort, craftsmanship, and innovative construction. Today, the ottoman is included in the permanent collections of MoMA in New York, the Henry Ford Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, solidifying its status as a symbol of mid-century modern design.

American vs. European Model Base:

Archetype Forms offers this ottoman in both the American Base and European Base versions, depending on your aesthetic preference. The American Base features thicker, angular feet, while the European Base is defined by a slimmer, more minimalist profile with curved feet.

Explore the 1956 Lounge Chair & Ottoman: American Base for an alternative look.

Key Features:

• Historical Significance: Faithful reproduction of Charles & Ray Eames’ ground-breaking Lounge Chair & Ottoman model 670 & 71, introduced in 1956.
• Innovative Construction: Moulded 7-ply plywood shells shaped using advanced WWII-era techniques for durability and minimal material waste.
• Ergonomic Comfort: Angled seat, contoured backrest, and high-quality padding provide unparalleled support and relaxation.
• Versatile Ottoman: Designed as a footrest but can also serve as impromptu seating or a soft side table.
• Customization Options: Available in multiple upholstery materials and veneer finishes to suit various interiors.
• Distinctive Options: American base features angular armrests and flat feet; also available with the European base featuring rounded arms and curved feet.

Shop the 1956 Ottoman: European Model base, originally designed by Charles & Ray Eames, online in Canada and the USA.

For the chair, see the Charles & Ray Eames Lounge Chair with European Base.

For the complete paired set, explore the 1956 Lounge Chair & Ottoman: European. For the American released version, see here.

Charles and Ray Eames were American designers who revolutionized 20th-century furniture, industrial design, and architecture. They began their collaborative career in 1941 after meeting at the Cranbrook Academy of Art. The Eames are known for their innovation with new materials and technologies in furniture design. Their iconic works include the Moulded Plywood series (1946), the classic Lounge Chair (1956), and the Aluminum Group and Soft Pad series office chairs (1958). The Eames' designs emphasize ergonomics, versatility, and innovation, earning them a permanent place in major museums and archive collections worldwide.

Upholstery: Removable cushion upholstered with premium aniline leather, suede, or fabric options

Shell Construction: Moulded 7-ply plywood with custom veneer finishes

Base: Four-star non-swivel die-cast aluminum base

Padding: High-density polyurethane foam

Glides: Hard for carpet, felt optional for hard floors

* Product is shipped with base detached for safe transport