I Tried It: Womb Chair by Eero Saarinen

The Womb Chair, designed by Eero Saarinen in 1946 for Florence Knoll, aimed to create a comfortable, enveloping seat. Knoll specifically requested a chair akin to a "basket full of pillows." Saarinen's design intentionally mimics a womb, a concept he articulated by stating, "It was designed on the theory that a great number of people have never really felt comfortable and secure since they left the womb." He viewed the chair as an attempt to address this fundamental human need for security and comfort, making it an instantly recognizable classic of the modernist movement. From a comfort perspective, the Womb Chair is described as first-class seating. Its ergonomic design is achieved through a foam lining around a fiberglass frame, offering both comfort and support. The chair avoids being overly stuffed with cushions; instead, its comfort is inherent in its structure, featuring organic shapes that align with Saarinen's belief in flexible seating to accommodate various postures. The armrests are notably designed to be parallel to the floor and at an ideal height for lounging. The upholstery, typically a high-quality wool fabric, adds to its coziness, and the small square back cushion is made from the same material. Both the seat and back cushions, though appearing integrated, are movable for easy adjustment. The design successfully creates a cocoon-like sensation, supporting multiple sitting positions, including sprawling out, curling up, or sitting cross-legged. In terms of durability and practicality, the Womb Chair is considered robust enough for homes with children or pets. Many of the available upholstery fabrics are treated with a stain-repellent finish, allowing for cleaning with water-based products. The chair's construction involved consultation with a boat builder, utilizing industrial materials such as fiberglass and resin for the shell, and tubular steel for the legs, indicating a focus on long-lasting quality. The in-person experience of the chair reportedly exceeds expectations, particularly regarding the tactile quality of the rugged-textured fabric and how seamlessly it integrates into a living space. The design’s efficiency means an ottoman is often unnecessary, as the chair itself encourages curled-up lounging. The indented armrests also provide practical space for items like books or drinks. The Womb Chair is a premium item, with prices starting at $4,300. Knoll offers payment plans through services like Affirm, with options such as $152 per month over 36 months. It can be purchased new directly from Knoll, which provides both ready-to-ship options and customization choices. For those seeking vintage models, 1stdibs and Chairish are recommended, with additional resources like eBay and Craigslist for authenticated second-hand pieces. Upholstery choices include 15 options, ranging from leather and ultra-suede to various woven wools, alongside frame finish selections in polished chrome gold or black. Lead times for delivery vary; quick-ship options for a classic bouclé upholstery with polished chrome legs are available within one to two weeks, while custom orders may take approximately 13 weeks. The chair's design allows it to complement a wide array of interior styles. It can serve as a vibrant accent in a minimalist glass house or blend discreetly into a neutral brownstone. Its versatility is evidenced by its presence in celebrity homes and notable establishments like the TWA Hotel at JFK. Saarinen's vision was to create a comfortable alternative to traditional overstuffed chairs, emphasizing the need for relaxation in modern life. Seventy-five years after its inception, the Womb Chair retains its relevance and distinctive appeal, demonstrating its timeless design. #WombChair #EeroSaarinen #MidCenturyModern #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #ComfortableSeating #KnollFurniture #HomeDecor #DesignClassics #WombChair #EeroSaarinen #MidCenturyModern #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #ComfortableSeating #KnollFurniture #HomeDecor #DesignClassics