Born in 1938, Danielle Quarante is a French furniture designer renowned for her innovative and distinct design aesthetics. Based in Paris, her creative influences and education have played a crucial role in shaping her illustrious career.
Education and Early Career
Quarante studied at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs and André Arbus’s workshop in Paris from 1959 to 1962, where she honed her craft and developed a deep understanding of the principles of design. Initially, she embarked on her professional journey as a graphic designer, specifically focusing on exhibition design.
In 1966, her career took a turn towards product design. She started designing children’s furniture and hi-fi systems, showcasing her versatility and ability to adapt her design sensibilities to various mediums and audiences.
Research and Academic Contributions
Quarante’s unquenchable thirst for knowledge and innovation led her to work as a researcher for Saint-Gobain and Usinor. She was not just content with creating but also wanted to contribute to the understanding and development of design principles. Her interest in education and research prompted her to take up a position at the Université de Technologie in Compiègne in 1974, where she served as a researcher and instructor.
In addition to her academic contributions, Quarante also served as a member of the International Congress of Societies of Industrial Designs from 1985 to 1987. Her deep insights into industrial design culminated in her writing and publishing the book “Élements de design industriel” in 1984.
Notable Works and Recognition
Among her many works, Quarante is perhaps best known for developing the Albatros chair for Airborned. This innovative piece of furniture, made from polyester and fibreglass, showcases her knack for combining form and function. Additionally, her Saint-Gobain glass table, designed for the Sociéte des Artistes Décorateurs’ Salon in 1969, is another testament to her pioneering design sensibilities.
Quarante’s talent and creativity were recognised when she won a competition in 1970 organised by the Centre de Création Industrielle and funded by Prisiunic/Shell. This win served as an affirmation of her unique approach to design and her capacity to push boundaries in the field.
Conclusion
Danielle Quarante’s contributions to the design field extend beyond the products she has created. She has played a significant role in shaping the discourse around industrial design through her academic work. She has inspired a new generation of designers through her innovative approach to design.
Sources
Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing.
More French Design
-
A Morning Delight: Mascarpone Pancakes with Red Fruit Compote
At Café Maison Sauvage, Mascarpone Pancakes with Red Fruit Compote is more than a meal, it’s a sensory journey. The dish exquisitely combines culinary skill with elements of design, inspiring a rich, memorable experience.Read More →
-
A Rainy Evening in Paris: Nostalgia on Wheels
The post details a romantic and immersive exploration of Paris’s historical landmarks from a 1979 Citroën 2CV, emphasizing emotional connections, simple joys, and seeing the city through a unique, intimate lens.Read More →
-
The Louvre Pyramid: A Fusion of Ancient and Modern
During an unexpected delay at the Louvre, a couple explores the Louvre Pyramid’s exterior, an architectural marvel designed by I. M. Pei, symbolizing a fusion of ancient symbolism and modern aesthetics.Read More →
-
A Serendipitous Stroll to the Pavillon de Flore
A couple’s unexpected delay at the Louvre led them to a fascinating exploration of the Pavillon de Flore, where they marvelled at its historical and architectural grandeur, underscoring the beauty in unplanned travel detours. Read More →
-
A Yuletide Journey: Christmas Magic at Galeries Lafayette
The author describes the magical Christmas experience at Galeries Lafayette in Paris, marveling at the grand decorations, city views, and the shared connection with the city and its festive spirit.Read More →
-
A Journey Through Time: Fontaines de la Concorde
The Fontaine des Mers at Place de la Concorde in Paris is a historically significant monument completed in 1840, symbolizing France’s maritime prowess. The intricate design features bronze and gold statues depicting ocean life and maritime navigation, highlighting the era’s industrial advancements.Read More →
-
Baccarat: A Glorious Legacy of French Glassworks
Founded in 1764, Baccarat, the esteemed French glassworks, has sustained its global appeal through exquisite designs and superb craftsmanship in products ranging from crystal stemware to jewelry. Renowned for timeless aesthetics and meticulous detailing, Baccarat’s luxury crystal continues to symbolize elegance and quality.Read More →
-
Exploration of French Furniture Over 200 Years
French furniture has evolved over 200 years, showcasing varying styles including the grandeur of the Baroque era, the whimsical Rococo, the simplicity of Neoclassical designs, the departure of Art Nouveau, and a 20th-century revival of previous styles. These iconic styles continue to inspire contemporary design.Read More →
-
Galeries Lafayette – Light on the Hill of European Design
The Galeries Lafayette reported revenue of more than five billion euros in 2019. Since 1960, it has belonged to the International Association of Department Stores. It now has a number of locations in France and other countries in addition to its flagship store on Boulevard Haussmann in Paris.Read More →
-
Andrée Putnam (1925 – 2013), French Interior Designer
Andrée Putman was a French interior designer, furniture designer, and entrepreneur. She was born in Paris. Putman was probably best known internationally for her black and white palette, illustrated by the 1985 interior of Morgans Hotel in New York. It was commissioned by the entrepreneurs Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell.Read More →
-
Robert Goosens (1927 – 2016), French jewellery designer
Monsieur Bijou was the moniker given to Robert Goosens, a French jeweller who lived from 1927 to 2016. He was born in Paris, France, the son of a metal foundry worker. He learned the techniques of casting, engraving, and embossing semi-precious and simulated stones into gold and silver metals during his apprenticeship in jewellery making.…
-
Boris-Jean Lacroix (1902-1984) 🇫🇷 French Lighting Designer
Boris-Jean Lacroix (1902-1984) was a French Lighting Designer born in Paris. Biography Lacroix was a prolific designer of lighting, wallpaper,Read More →
-
Marcel Guillemard (1886 – 1932) French Decorator & designer
Marcel Guillemard (1886 – 1932) was a French decorator and furniture designer. He was born and professionally active in Paris.Read More →
-
Paul Poiret (1879 – 1944) – King of Fashion
In the early decades of the 20th century, Paul Poiret was a crucial figure in the French fashion industry, notably by adding a deep oriental flavour and rich colours to contemporary clothing. Read More →
-
Jean-Charles Moreaux (1889 – 1956) Architectural Alchemy Blending Tradition and Fantasy
His first pieces of furniture were shown at the Salon d’Automne in 1924. He prefered poetic living spaces and believed that people deserved better than Corbusier’s “living machines.” Read More →
-
Eric Anthony Bagge (1890 – 1970), French architect and designer
Eric Anthony Bagge (1890 – 1970) was a French architect and designer. He was born in the town of Antony, near Paris.Read More →
-
Danielle Quarante: Pioneering French Furniture Designer
She began her professional career as a graphic designer, specialising in exhibition design. In 1966 she worked on product design (children’s furniture, hi-fi systems).Read More →
-
Armand Point (1861-1932), French Algerian painter, and designer
Armand Point (1861-1932) was a Symbolist painter, engraver, and designer from France, one of the Salon de la Rose + Croix founding members. Point’s first paintings were orientalist scenes of markets and musicians and scenes from his childhood in Algeria’s streets. In 1888, he moved to Paris to study under Auguste Herst and Fernand Cormon…
-
Institut d’Esthétique Industrielle: Champion of Good Design
The Institut d’Esthétique Industrielle, founded in 1949, is a crucial institution in French design, promoting good design and fostering innovation. It emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic value in industrial production, contributing to the rich tapestry of French design and enhancing user experience and quality of life.Read More →
-
The Île-de-France: Floating Ambassador of French Decorative Arts
The Île-de-France, launched in 1926, was a grand dame of French ocean liners, showcasing elegance and craftsmanship. Designed by top designers, it showcased French decorative arts, opulence, and practicality, making it a symbol of the golden age of transatlantic travel.Read More →
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.