Le Corbusier

Le Corbusier (1887-1965)

Charles-Edouard Jeanneret-Gris, who chose to be known as Le Corbusier, was a Swiss-born architect and writer. Le Corbusier pioneered theoretical studies of modern design and was dedicated to providing better living conditions for the residents of crowded cities. His career spanned five decades, with his iconic buildings constructed throughout central Europe, India, Russia, and one structure each in North and South America. He was also an urban planner, painter, sculptor, writer, and modern furniture designer.

Le Corbusier began experimenting with furniture design in 1928. Le Corbusier co-designed a series of furniture with his cousin Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand. The tubular steel furniture, like the famous Corbusier LC4 Chaise and Grand Confort chair, provided a new rationalist aesthetic that came to epitomize modern design. Le Corbusier's groundbreaking designs from the 1920s were the basis for the International Style. His famous Le Corbusier furniture collection is widely considered to be the pinnacle of modern classic furniture design. Most of his furniture designs were developed early in his career. The metal furniture he designed in 1928 quickly became successful worldwide.

Against his doctor's orders in 1965, Le Corbusier went for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea at Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France. His body was found a short time later after he suffered a heart attack. Le Corbusier's death had a strong impact on the cultural and political world. Lyndon B. Johnson, President of the United States, said: "His influence was universal and his works are invested with a permanent quality possessed by those of very few artists in our history".