Room by Room – the Le Corbusier LC1 Chair

This week, Room by Room with FormFire Glassworks takes a look at the LC1 Basculant Chair by Le Corbusier.

Designed by Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand for the Salon d’Automne exhibition in Paris in 1929, the LC1, or ‘basculant’ (tipping) chair is now part of the design collection for the Museum of Modern Art. Licensed by Cassina, its tubular steel frame supports a sling-style upholstery made of three types of leather: black, Russian red and pony hide with black leather arms. A simple L-shaped leather seat is supported in a tipped position within the chrome or matte black framework which imparts dynamism within a modular geometric structure. This chair is best used for lounge seating in either home or office, as the tilted orientation of the sitter does not lend itself to sitting at a desk or table.

Chromed steel and black leather make me think of monochromatic color combined with interesting textures. Felt coasters are enhanced by a shot of color stitching, while an openwork metal basket hides none of its construction or its contents. A felt tissue box cover is both beautiful and practical. A pinched ceramic vase begs for you to touch it, while a woven felt pillow invites relaxation as well as visual interest.

Next week I will be shifting to more current furniture pieces and give you my picks for accessorizing your modern home.