09 janvier 2025
Architects and furniture design : the art of creating unique spaces and objects
In the world of architecture, design is not limited to living spaces. Architects are also artists capable of transforming everyday objects into functional gems. By exploring the achievements of designer furniture by architects, we discover a discipline where functionality and aesthetics intertwine. This article explores how and why architects design furniture, highlighting emblematic examples, the materials used, and their impact on current trends. It's also an opportunity for us to show you what the ERHÉ agency has already designed in terms of designer furniture.
Architecture and furniture design: a natural fit
Une vision globale de l'espace
Unlike industrial designers, who focus exclusively on objects, architects design furniture taking into account its integration into an environment. This holistic approach ensures visual and functional continuity between the furniture and the space in which it fits.
The heritage of architects in design furniture
- Le Corbusier : Famous for his iconic LC2 and LC4 armchairs, which combine modern elegance with ergonomic comfort.
- Charles and Ray Eames : Although also considered designers, these visionaries created chairs that have become icons of the XXᵉ century, such as the Lounge Chair.
- Mies van der Rohe : The creator of the Barcelona chair, a timeless symbol of modernism.
LC4 chair from Le Corbusier
© Vintage
Continuity through to the present day
Contemporary architects continue to leave their mark on furniture design. Zaha Hadid, for example, has designed sculptural pieces that push back the boundaries of material and form.
The materials and techniques used
- Wood : For its natural warmth and versatility.
- Steel and metal : Synonymous with solidity and modernity.
- Glass : For lightness and transparency.
- Composite materials : Used for their ability to be moulded into innovative shapes.
New technologies
The use of technologies such as 3D printing and laser cutting allows architects to push back the boundaries of what is possible. These tools offer precision and freedom in the creation of complex shapes.
ERHE's furniture being created in the Ferronnerie Noiraud workshop
© ERHE
Current trends in designer furniture by architects
Sustainable and eco-responsible furniture
Sustainability is a key concern for architects. They seek to reduce the carbon footprint of their creations by using recycled or certified sustainable materials.
Collaboration between architects and designers
Some architectural agencies work with industrial designers to create unique collections. This synergy combines architectural expertise with the specific know-how of object design.
Recent examples of architects creating designer furniture
The pink structure is perfect for balconies. You can sit back and admire the view. Children can also enjoy the fold-out swing. The whole structure can be enhanced with green plants or other decorative elements such as garlands.
Pink frame with folding swing
© ERHÉ
Furniture design also allows us to perfectly fit out a space that we're renovating by providing both aesthetic and practical elements that perfectly match our objectives. This was the case for a lawyer's office in Bordeaux. After renovating the room, which had previously been a bathroom, we were able to integrate functional elements into the workspace: lighting, electrical sockets, shelves for organising books and documents, and coat racks all fit into the blue structure.
To create our designer furniture, we always call on local craftsmen such as Noiraud ironwork.
Refurbishment of a lawyer's office in Bordeaux
© ERHÉ
The advantages of choosing an architect to design your furniture
Technical expertise
Architects have the technical expertise to create furniture that combines solidity, ergonomics and aesthetics.
An artistic vision
Every piece of furniture designed by an architect is a work of art in its own right. It is a unique element that tells a story.
How to integrate designer furniture into your architectural projects
Consider dimensions and proportions
Good designer furniture is about more than aesthetics. It must also respect the proportions of the space and adapt to its use. This was the case for the design of this glass roof during the renovation of an office space in Bordeaux.
Design furniture, a natural extension of architecture
Architects who design furniture add value to their projects. Their ability to create unique, functional and aesthetic objects makes them key players in contemporary design. Whether you're an individual or a professional, considering furniture designed by an architect is a strategic choice for enhancing your spaces.
To find out more about designer furniture projects by architects, take a look at our agency's work on our website!
Blue structure for gardening workshop designed by ERHÉ
© ERHÉ
Redaction : ERHÉ
Images : Vintage, ERHÉ
Architecture and furniture design: a natural fit
Why are architects interested in furniture?
Architects have always been attracted by the design of utilitarian objects. Design furniture allows them to explore different creative dimensions, moving from the architectural scale to the intimate object. Creating a piece of furniture means bringing to life an element that blends harmoniously into a space while meeting practical needs.Une vision globale de l'espace
Unlike industrial designers, who focus exclusively on objects, architects design furniture taking into account its integration into an environment. This holistic approach ensures visual and functional continuity between the furniture and the space in which it fits.The heritage of architects in design furniture
The pioneers of desirable furniture
Some of the biggest names in furniture design are architects by training. Here are a few key figures:- Le Corbusier : Famous for his iconic LC2 and LC4 armchairs, which combine modern elegance with ergonomic comfort.
- Charles and Ray Eames : Although also considered designers, these visionaries created chairs that have become icons of the XXᵉ century, such as the Lounge Chair.
- Mies van der Rohe : The creator of the Barcelona chair, a timeless symbol of modernism.
LC4 chair from Le Corbusier
© Vintage
Continuity through to the present day
Contemporary architects continue to leave their mark on furniture design. Zaha Hadid, for example, has designed sculptural pieces that push back the boundaries of material and form.The materials and techniques used
The importance of materials in furniture design
The selection of materials is essential for architects designing furniture. It affects both aesthetics and durability. Here are a few popular materials:- Wood : For its natural warmth and versatility.
- Steel and metal : Synonymous with solidity and modernity.
- Glass : For lightness and transparency.
- Composite materials : Used for their ability to be moulded into innovative shapes.
New technologies
The use of technologies such as 3D printing and laser cutting allows architects to push back the boundaries of what is possible. These tools offer precision and freedom in the creation of complex shapes.
ERHE's furniture being created in the Ferronnerie Noiraud workshop
© ERHE
Current trends in designer furniture by architects
Made-to-measure furniture
Many architects now offer made-to-measure furniture, designed specifically for the projects they supervise. This customisation enhances the uniqueness of the spaces created.Sustainable and eco-responsible furniture
Sustainability is a key concern for architects. They seek to reduce the carbon footprint of their creations by using recycled or certified sustainable materials.Collaboration between architects and designers
Some architectural agencies work with industrial designers to create unique collections. This synergy combines architectural expertise with the specific know-how of object design.Recent examples of architects creating designer furniture
The case of our ERHÉ architectural office
In our agency, we are keen to take our creativity even further by creating designer furniture. We have designed these outdoor structures in particular. The blue one was designed for indoor gardening enthusiasts. It has everything you need to hang up green plants and take cuttings in comfort, thanks to the storage space and seat.The pink structure is perfect for balconies. You can sit back and admire the view. Children can also enjoy the fold-out swing. The whole structure can be enhanced with green plants or other decorative elements such as garlands.
Pink frame with folding swing
© ERHÉ
Furniture design also allows us to perfectly fit out a space that we're renovating by providing both aesthetic and practical elements that perfectly match our objectives. This was the case for a lawyer's office in Bordeaux. After renovating the room, which had previously been a bathroom, we were able to integrate functional elements into the workspace: lighting, electrical sockets, shelves for organising books and documents, and coat racks all fit into the blue structure.
To create our designer furniture, we always call on local craftsmen such as Noiraud ironwork.
Refurbishment of a lawyer's office in Bordeaux
© ERHÉ
The advantages of choosing an architect to design your furniture
A unique, personalised approach
An architect will always take into account your specific needs and the environment in which the furniture fits. This customisation guarantees a result that reflects your personality.Technical expertise
Architects have the technical expertise to create furniture that combines solidity, ergonomics and aesthetics.An artistic vision
Every piece of furniture designed by an architect is a work of art in its own right. It is a unique element that tells a story.How to integrate designer furniture into your architectural projects
Calling on an architect to design furniture
Choosing an architect who also designs furniture is ideal for achieving perfect harmony between your space and its layout.Consider dimensions and proportions
Good designer furniture is about more than aesthetics. It must also respect the proportions of the space and adapt to its use. This was the case for the design of this glass roof during the renovation of an office space in Bordeaux.Design furniture, a natural extension of architecture
Architects who design furniture add value to their projects. Their ability to create unique, functional and aesthetic objects makes them key players in contemporary design. Whether you're an individual or a professional, considering furniture designed by an architect is a strategic choice for enhancing your spaces.To find out more about designer furniture projects by architects, take a look at our agency's work on our website!
Blue structure for gardening workshop designed by ERHÉ
© ERHÉ
Redaction : ERHÉ
Images : Vintage, ERHÉ
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