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Charlotte Perriand - Les Arcs

Charlotte Perriand’s Les Arcs: Iconic Furniture Collection for the Alps

 

Les Arcs Ski Resort in France has an unlikely, but iconic connection to furniture design – thanks to the ingenious vision of Charlotte Perriand. Back in the 1960s she was commissioned by authorities at this ski resort bring her designs and ideas into reality, which live on today as some of most recognizable pieces worldwide!

Who Is Charlotte Perriand?

Born in Paris, France on October 24th 1903, Perriand was the ultimate rebel. She attended the École de l’Union Centrale des Arts Décoratifs but quickly grew tired of their traditional styles and techniques – thank goodness! It was her rebellious manner that caught Le Corbusier’s eye; he hired her to design furniture for his studio alongside him and his cousin Pierre Jeanneret, where they created some pretty amazing stuff including a super luxurious lounge chair called LC4 chaise longue (you know you want it!). Check it out below.

Charlotte Perriand Portrait
Charlotte Perriand in LC4 (Relaxing Machine)

Ever the pioneer, Charlotte revolutionized design with her incredible works of art that were both aesthetically pleasing and incredibly functional. Despite coming from a privileged background, she refused to forget those less fortunate than herself – one of her most famous projects was designing affordable housing units for everyday people in France. Her pioneering spirit lives on through all who admire her work today – even after ending this earthly journey at 96 years old back in 1999! Check out the short video below to get an idea of the inner workings of Charlotte Perriand. It’s brief, but one of the best pieces I’ve found about her and her work at Les Arcs.

After revolutionizing design with her incredible works, Charlotte Perriand was widely praised for her accomplishments. One of her most famous projects was creating LC4 (Relaxing Machine), an affordable housing unit designed for everyday people in

Les Arcs Ski Resort: A Quick Origin Story

In 1961, Robert Blanc took architect Roger Godino on a ski trip in the upper Tarentaise valley. When they arrived at this gorgeous area, Roger was so taken by it that he suggested they turn it into a ski resort! He got some architects from the Atelier d’Architecture en Montagne involved with designing for the project but wasn’t thrilled about their ideas. That’s when he called upon Charlotte Perriand- she had already made quite an impression as a mountain architect and her designs really won him over! It’s important to note that after WWII, the French government wanted to give citizens more vacation options and developing Les Arcs Ski Resort was a perfect fit! Not only did this provide winter sports access to everyone but it had a stunning view of Mont Blanc. Les Arcs officially opened for the 1968/1969 ski season. 

Roger Godino + Robert Blanc
Roger Godino + Robert Blanc

The History of  Furniture from Les Arcs

Robert Blanc, founder of Les Arcs Ski Resort (who died tragically in an avalanche at Les Arcs in 1980),  had this totally radical idea to completely change the furniture game at his ski resort, so he brought in French designer Charlotte Perriand. What she came up with was something that still sets the bar for modern design today – the Les Arcs Furniture line! She took a modular approach to create functional and affordable pieces that weren’t too complicated or flashy, but just chic enough you wouldn’t mind showing them off.

Did Charlotte Perriand Design Les Arcs Furniture?

 It’s important to note that the work at Les Arcs was, in fact, mostly collaborative. Much of the pieces being sold today are credited to Charlotte Perriand, but they were designed by others. Perriand assembled a team over the years, who worked together to bring modernist furniture design alive at the ski station in France. Some of these key partners were Dal Vera (now defunct), Cassina, Robert Sentou, Honsel Leuchten, Disderot, and Airborne. They all brought their expert design acumen and craftsmanship that resulted in stylish sofas, chairs, lighting, and other pieces that culminated in the iconic look that put Les Arcs on the map – no small feat! Truly these partnerships presented something special; each element lovingly curated with care like elements from a beautiful symphony artfully composed help create harmony amidst global snow-capped inspiration – stunning Les Arcs. 

The Unique Design of Charlotte Perriand Furniture from Les Arcs

Furniture from Les Arcs is characterized by its clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. The furniture is designed to be multi-functional, with pieces that can be easily transformed to suit different purposes. The chairs, stools, and tables are designed to be stackable, making them easy to store when not in use. The furniture is also designed to be lightweight and easy to move. So practical! 

Les Arcs Resort Interiors
Les Arcs Resort Interiors

The Material and Craftsmanship of Furniture from Les Arcs

The furniture from Les Arcs is made from high-quality materials such as wood, metal, and leather. The wood used in the furniture is typically pine (sometimes beech was used, as well), which is known for its durability and strength. The metal frames are made from steel, providing stability and durability. The cognac leather used in the furniture is of the highest quality, which makes it not only gorgeous (like the iconic dining chair), but comfortable and durable too. Its like butter!

A List Of The Les Arcs Furniture

Les Arcs Chairs

la cascade dining chairs

La Cascade Dining Chair

Design: Charlotte Perriand? 

Materials: Pine

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Stackable Leather Dining Chair

Les Arcs Stackable Leather Dining Chair

Design: Sourced from Dal Vera (now defunct)

Materials: Chromed Steel, leather

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Bar Stool

Les Arcs Bar Stool

Design: Sourced from Dal Vera (now defunct)

Materials: Chromed Steel, leather

Period: 1960’s

La Cascade Chair -Roland Haeusler

La Cascade Chair (Roland Haeusler)

Materials: Pine

Design: Roland Haeusler

Period: 1960’s

Dordogne Chair

Dordogne Chair

Materials: Pine, straw

Design: Robert Sentou

Period: 1960’s

La Cachette Armchairs

La Cachette Armchair

Materials: Pine, fabric upholstery

Design: Charlotte Perriand?

Period: 1960’s

La Cachette Sofa-Daybed

La Cachette Sofa/Daybed

Materials: Pine, fabric upholstery

Design: Charlotte Perriand?

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Benches

Les Arcs Slatted Low Bench

Les Arcs Slatted Low Bench

Materials: Pine

Design: Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1968-1973

Les Arcs Pine Waterfall Bench

Les Arcs Pine Waterfall Bench

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Bench

Les Arcs Bench

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Bedroom Furniture

Les Arcs Daybed

Les Arcs Daybed

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1970

Les Arcs Nightstand

Les Arcs Nightstand

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Nightstand - short

Les Arcs Nightstand (short)

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Chest Of Drawers

Les Arcs Chest Of Drawers

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

Les Arcs Wardrobe

Les Arcs Wardrobe

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1967

Les Arcs Writing Desk

Les Arcs Writing Desk

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

Les Arcs Stools

Les Arcs 3 Legged Stool

Les Arcs 3 Legged Stool

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

Les Arcs La Cascade Stools

Les Arcs La Cascade Stools

Materials: Pine, rush

Design: Charlotte Perriand?

Period: 1968

Les Arcs Sandoz Stool

Les Arcs Sandoz Stool

Materials: Pine

Design: Charlotte Perriand?

Period: 1968

Les Arcs Tables

Les Arcs Tall Dining Table

Les Arcs Tall Dining Table

Materials: Pine

Design: Charlotte Perriand?

Period: 1968

les arcs large dining table

Les Arcs Large Dining Table

Materials: Pine, steel

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

les arcs square side table

Les Arcs Square Side Table

Materials: Pine, steel

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

Les Arcs Pentagonal Side Table

Les Arcs Pentagonal Side Table

Materials: Pine, steel

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

Les Arcs Low Round Coffee Table

Les Arcs Low Round Coffee Table

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

Les Arcs Low Coffee Table

Les Arcs Low Coffee Table

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960

Les Arcs Lighting

Les Arcs 1600 Lighting

Les Arcs (CP-1) 1600 Wall Lights

Materials: Metal, paint.

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1970

Les Arcs Sconces

Les Arcs Wall Sconces

Materials: Brushed metal

Design: Honsel Leuchten

Period: 1969

Other Les Arcs Furnishings

Les Arcs Coat Rack

Les Arcs Coat Rack

Materials: Pine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Rare Wall Console

Rare Wall Console

Materials: Pine, metal

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1970’s

Les Arcs Side Board

Les Arcs Side Board

Materials: Pine, melamine

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1970’s

Les Arcs Enameled Wall Cabinets

Les Arcs Enameled Wall Cabinets

Materials: Enameled Metal

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960’s

Les Arcs Luggage Rack

Les Arcs Luggage Rack

Materials: Pine, metal

Design:Charlotte Perriand

Period: 1960’s

The Popularity of Furniture from Les Arcs Today

Charlotte Perriand Les Arcs designs are still popular today, and they are considered an integral part of modernist innovation. The furniture’s unique design, quality craftsmanship, and durability have stood the test of time and continue to be sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts alike. The furniture’s versatility makes it suitable for a variety of spaces, from fancy schmancy modern apartments to uber comfy alpine chalets.

 

Where can I buy Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs?

Charlotte Perriand Les Arcs furniture is available at high-end furniture stores and auction houses. It can also be found online through reputable dealers and marketplaces. Here are some places that you can check out: 

https://www.1stdibs.com/buy/charlotte-perriand-les-arcs/
https://www.chairish.com/search?q=les+arcs
https://www.galerie44.com/en/search?controller=search&s=les+arcs

 Is Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs expensive?

Yes, Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs is considered a luxury item and can be quite expensive. However, the furniture's quality, durability, and design make it a worthwhile investment for collectors and design enthusiasts.

 Is Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs still relevant today?

Absolutely, Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs is still relevant today and continues to inspire contemporary design. The furniture's timeless design and quality craftsmanship make it a valuable addition to any modern space.

Are there any reproductions of Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs available?

Yes, there are some reproductions of Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs available on the market. However, it's important to note that not all reproductions are created equal, and it's essential to purchase from reputable sellers who use high-quality materials and stay true to the original design.

Can Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs be customized?

While Charlotte Perriand furniture from Les Arcs is typically sold as-is, some manufacturers and dealers offer customization options, such as different finishes or upholstery. However, it's important to ensure that any customization is done in a way that maintains the integrity of the original design. Personally speaking, I wouldn’t touch it! Also - What the hell are you thinking??!! Stop.

Timeless Simplicity Of Les Arcs Design

Furniture from Les Arcs ski resort is truly classic. It’s got an edge to it – not just the design, but its sturdy material and skilled craftsmanship make for durable pieces that look beautiful wherever you place ’em! Plus these are nothing short of timeless; they’ve been around forever (ok, 50 years) yet remain modern day must-haves in any contemporary home. There’s a good reason why people swear by this stuff – collection or no collection. Perriand was a design maverick. Facts.

Want to see how Charlotte Perriand really got her start in the design world? Check out THIS article and prepare to be amazed!

References:

“Charlotte Perriand: A Pioneer of Modern Design.” Cassina. https://www.cassina.com/ww/en/news/library/charlotte-perriand.html .

“The Woman Who Democratised Skiing.” https://francetoday.com/culture/the-woman-who-democratised-skiing/

“Charlotte Perriand: Designing for Leisure.” Les Arcs. https://www.dwr.com/designer-charlotte-perriand?lang=en_US

“Charlotte Perriand Les Arcs.” Pamono. https://www.pamono.com/designers/charlotte-perriand/furniture

“Charlotte Perriand Les Arcs Chair.” Wright. https://www.wright20.com/artists/charlotte-perriand .

“Charlotte Perriand Les Arcs Stool.” Phillips. https://www.phillips.com/Search?Search=charlotte+perriand

“Charlotte Perriand: The Modern Life.” The Design Museum. https://designmuseum.org/designers/charlotte-perriand .

Book references: 

“Charlotte Perriand: Complete Works” by Jacques Barsac 

“Charlotte Perriand: An Art of Living” by Mary McLeod 

“Charlotte Perriand: Inventing a New World” by Danièle Pauly 

“Charlotte Perriand: A Life of Creation” by Elisabeth Vedrenne

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