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Tuesday, May 22, 2012

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Design Research: a Pioneering Retailer is Relevant Again

Back in 1953, architect Benjamin Thompson opened Design Research in Cambridge, MA. This game-changing interior design store supported the idea—made possible by mass production, a development in manufacturing that lowered prices while simultaneously maintaining the quality of home furnishings—that good design could be accessible to everyone. It also introduced the concept of a "lifestyle" store—one selling a variety of products (from furniture to clothing to decorative objects) to appeal to a specific customer and aesthetic.

Design Research stores, which later opened in New York, San Francisco and elsewhere, innovated many ideas that we take for granted today—modern, loft-like retail spaces; creative displays; and the idea of making emotional connections through shopping.

Design Research stores were often the first to bring classic pieces that had previously only been available in Europe or through interior designers to the American market, and often at terrific prices. Marcel Breuer’s "Cesca" steel and cane chair, the Arco marble base floor lamp, Eames' wire leg "Eiffel" chairs, and Kartell’s molded plastic pieces all became easy to purchase and bring home.

Design ResearchGiven fashion’s recent obsession with the return of unpretentious, sleek design (see Phoebe Philo's paired down, minimal chic collection at Celine), the Design Research "lifestyle" looks fresh and modern once again. Extraneous details are removed; form and function are essential; workmanship and quality are key—even with a mass-produced product; and an emotional connection is key.

 Check out the Design Research: The Store that Brought Modern Living to American Homes (Chronicle), a new book by Jane Thompson and Alexandra Lange that chronicles the renowned "general store of good design."

Then shop for Design Research-style items on eBay. Since many of the items sold at the stores were mass-produced in such large numbers, they are easily available and good deals can be found.

Roll over items for details
1951 Eames Eiffel Chair
(buy it now price, $2,615.85)
Kartell Roung Planter Anna Castelli
(buy it now price, $95)
Joe Colombo Italian Modern File Cabinet
(buy it now price, $875)
NEW Dorel Parson Table
(buy it now price, $4.99)
3pc Kartell Nesting Table Set
(starting bid, $49.99)
NEW Castiglioni-Style Marble Arco Lamp
(buy it now price, $504)
Lightolier White Plastic & Enamel Lamp
(buy it now price, $149.99)
Laurel Lightolier Chrome Globe Table Lamp
(buy it now price, $154.99)
Design Research: a Pioneering Retailer is Relevant Again

 

 

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