New Classics: The EroS Chair

Its look may be futuristic, but this curvy Philippe Starck seat already has classic status

Becky Harris

Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected." I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia. I've been writing about design online for quite a few years over at Hatch: The Design Public Blog.

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The EroS Chair was designed by Philippe Starck for Kartell back in 1998, and it shows no signs of going out of style — perhaps because its design pays homage to the classic forms of a few midcentury modern icons (more on that below). The seat is made of polycarbonate and has a balanced, curved shape. While the form of the EroS clearly respects midcentury modern precedents, it has a very futuristic look. It works all over the house, and has a chameleon-like quality that allows it to be the standout in the room, fade into the background, or function just about anywhere in between. This is where savvy design ability comes in; here's a look at how designers are using it.

by Design Public »

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Kartell Eros Chair - $485.00 »

The swiveling version of the EroS spins atop a pedestal the same way Eero Saarinen's tulip chairs do. However, rather than a matching white base and seat, there's a great contrast between the chrome of the base and the shiny polycarbonate seat.

by Grace Home Design, Inc. »

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Here's a room where the color of the EroS makes it stand out along with the other pops of yellow.

As for its form, the nonswivel version of the chair sits atop an Eiffel base. The precedent for this base is that of the Eames Shell Chair.

by Kaylovesvintage »

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Blogger Kay Loves Vintage has an impressive collection of iconic midcentury furnishings; the fact that she integrated an EroS into her décor is what inspired me to learn more about it in the first place.

by John Lum Architecture, Inc. AIA »

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In addition to the translucent polycarbonate versions, the chair also comes in an opaque version like you see here. In this image, the EroS brings the new to this mix of old and new furnishings.

by DKOR Interiors Inc.- Interior Designers Miami, FL »

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EroS is also a good choice as an occasional chair in a bedroom. This translucent green swivel version takes up very little visual space.

by Philpotts Interiors »

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The chair is a fun choice for a child's room as well; kids love to swivel.

by Ibrahim Radwan »

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This pedestal table provides plenty of room for the Eiffel base chair legs. Clear versions of the chair add a sculptural element that doesn't overwhelm the room.

by Webber + Studio, Architects »

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In this contemporary open space, all the furnishings work together to take advantage of the view. The EroS chairs are sleek and don't distract. They also work well with the 14.7 Chandelier.