Erwine and Estelle Laverne: Pioneers of Mid-Century Modern Design

Erwine Laverne (1911–1993) and Estelle Laverne (1915–1997) emerged as formidable figures in the mid-20th-century American design landscape. Both trained in fine arts, Estelle at the Art Students League of New York under Hans Hofmann and Erwine initially as an architect, the Lavernes blended artistic vision with innovative entrepreneurship. They founded Laverne Originals, which evolved from an importer of Scandinavian furniture to a producer of their original designs, significantly influencing modern interiors.

Design Philosophy and Contributions

The Lavernes’ philosophy centred around the fusion of art and functionality, creating “sculptures for a living.” This vision was most famously materialized through their “Invisible Group” of furniture. Introduced in the late 1950s, this collection featured acrylic chairs and tables designed to blend into their environments, pioneering using materials to enhance spatial perception and aesthetic minimalism.

Legacy and Impact

Their work, characterized by sleek lines and minimalist forms, is considered a cornerstone of mid-century modern design, with pieces like the “T chair” recognized with a 1952 AID award for best furniture in the USA. The Lavernes’ designs were functional and sculptural, influencing generations of designers and continuing to be highly sought after by collectors.

Artistic Inspirations and Collaborations

The Lavernes were both creators and talent curators, bringing in designers like William Katavolos and Ross Littell to contribute to their expanding vision. Their ability to incorporate diverse artistic influences is evident in their collaborations, including with artist Alexander Calder, who designed exclusive wallpapers for their collection.

Tragic Beauty: The Lavernes’ Later Years

Despite their innovative contributions, the Lavernes faced significant challenges. Their later years were marked by legal battles over their production methods and the tragic decline in their health. Yet, their design legacy endures, a testament to their commitment to beauty and innovation in adversity.

Conclusion

Erwine and Estelle Laverne exemplify the spirit of mid-century modern design. Their lives are woven into the fabric of American art and culture. Their work inspires and resonates, reflecting their profound impact on the design world.

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL

The Invisibles. (2004, April 18). The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2004/04/18/magazine/the-invisibles.html

Mid-Century Design and Designers