Sparked by the research and fabrication of Charles and Ray Eames, plywood has transformed from a sheeting material into a regular element in sophisticated design furniture. A demand for cheap, mass-produced objects such as splints launched the Eames’ work into plywood and industrial design. After the Second World War, Charles and Ray Eames commercialized the use of plywood in industrial design via chairs and toys. It is interesting to note, however, that there was a wave of earlier industrial design with molded plywood. Alvar Aalto and Marcel Breuer independently designed reclined seats with molded plywood in the 1930s.
Molded plywood is a process by which wood veneer layers are pressed and glued together around a formwork. The formwork gives the plywood its form and enables mass reproduction — ideal for commercial applications.
Let this collection help you form a new point of view on the possibilities available with molded plywood in furniture design.
This simple sleek chair features two overlapping molded panels of plywood. The chair can also be made with padded cushions or covered in fabric.
A single folded piece of plywood makes up the Allround Stool. The chair is stackable and available with various additions such as armrests, the option to add fabric, and different dimensions.
The basic shape of the Ply is a scalable triangle. The product is available as a low chair, stool, or table in varying heights and widths to fit the needs of a space.
The legs of this folded plywood table recall in proportion some of the early Eames splints. With its rounded and filleted details, the table is an elegant example of molded plywood.
Avo floats two undulating plywood panels supported by powder-coated or chrome-plated steel frame.
These nesting curved shapes can be used as stools or tables, and, when nested, they can operate as storage cubes.
Curved plywood shelves flank the bed and boosters in Sova.
Stacking and sleek, the Join chair brings functionality with its folded concrete and modern form. It can be painted, as well, to better integrate into an interior.