"To whom does design address itself: to the greatest number, to the specialist of an enlightened matter, to a privileged social class? Design addresses itself to the need." -Charles Eames

Aluminum Group chairs were originally developed in 1958 as a special project by Ray Eames for a private residence being designed by Eero Saarinen and Alexander Girard. At the time, the furniture was called the "leisure group," or "indoor-outdoor group" since it was meant to address the lack of quality outdoor furniture on the market.

The seat-back suspension was a major technical achievement and represented a departure from the concept of the chair as a solid shell. Wonderfully comfortable, strong, yet lightweight, the chairs became the basis for several other Eames designs, including the Soft Pad chairs.

With a grand sense of adventure, Charles and Ray Eames turned their curiosity and boundless enthusiasm into creations that established them as a truly great husband-and-wife design team. Their unique synergy led to a whole new look in furniture. Lean and modern. Playful and functional. Sleek, sophisticated, and beautifully simple. That was and is the "Eames look."

The Aluminum group is available in management, side, executive, and lounge models. Their classic lines and comfortable suspension keep them in demand for all kinds of places, from contemporary homes to elegant offices to hip startups.

The executive chair features a high back with arms and an aluminum frame with suspended upholstery. It has a 5-star base with casters, tilt-swivel mechanism and seat-height adjustment (regular or pneumatic). The new pneumatic height adjustment allows for easier height adjustment, adds 2 additional inches to the top end of the height adjustment and the new tilt lock allows the seat angle to be secured in the neutral position.