Popular Materials and Manufacturing Techniques: 70s Style Desk Chair
Ah, the groovy 70s! A decade of flared jeans, disco balls, and… surprisingly innovative desk chair design. While not always known for minimalist chic, the 70s offered a fascinating blend of materials and manufacturing techniques, reflecting both the era’s aesthetic and the available technology. Let’s delve into the wonderfully weird world of 70s chair construction.
The common materials used in 70s desk chairs were a delightful mix of the practical and the playfully bold. Think rich, dark wood veneers, often walnut or teak, providing a sophisticated base. Upholstery was a key element, with a range of fabrics gracing these iconic seats. Think plush corduroy, vibrant vinyl (oh, the avocado green!), and even shag carpeting making an appearance on some more adventurous models. Metals, particularly chrome, were frequently used for bases and accents, adding a futuristic touch that perfectly captured the era’s optimism. Steel, though less glamorous, provided sturdy support for many designs.
Materials and Manufacturing Processes Compared
The manufacturing processes of 70s chairs differed significantly from today’s. While modern chairs often utilize high-tech machinery and mass production techniques, 70s chairs frequently involved more handcrafted elements. For example, upholstery was often applied by hand, resulting in a unique, sometimes slightly uneven, finish that adds to their charm. Woodworking techniques were more labor-intensive, with less reliance on automated processes. This often resulted in chairs with subtle variations, adding to their individual character. Modern manufacturing prioritizes efficiency and consistency, often using computer-aided design and robotic assembly lines to produce identical chairs at a high volume. The 70s approach, on the other hand, valued craftsmanship and often resulted in unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Iconic 70s Desk Chair Designs and Materials, 70s style desk chair
The 70s boasted a number of truly iconic chair designs, each showcasing the materials and techniques of the time.
- The Eames Molded Plastic Chair (variations from the 60s continued into the 70s): While originating slightly earlier, variations of this classic chair continued to be popular throughout the 70s. It featured molded fiberglass (often in vibrant colors) for the shell and a variety of bases, including steel wire and wood. The bold colors and simple yet elegant design captured the spirit of the era.
- Many “Executive” style chairs: These often featured high backs, plush upholstery (often leather or vinyl in brown, black, or deep greens), and sturdy wood or metal frames. The focus was on comfort and a sense of status, reflecting the corporate culture of the time. Imagine a mahogany frame with thick, dark brown vinyl upholstery; the epitome of 70s office style.
- Chairs with chrome and tubular steel frames: These designs embraced the futuristic aesthetic of the era. The metal frames, often chrome-plated, were paired with vinyl or fabric seats and backs, creating a sleek and modern look. Think clean lines and a sense of airy lightness, a stark contrast to the more substantial executive styles.
