Manufacturer: Vitra | Designer: Charles & Ray Eames, 1949

The ESU Bookcase

In 1949, Charles and Ray Eames developed a system of freestanding, multifunctional shelves and desks that applied the same principles of industrial production they had used in the construction of the Eames House. The result was the Eames Storage Unit (ESU) and the Eames Desk Unit (EDU) — modular, honest in their materials, and designed to be reconfigured as needs changed.

Vitra’s reissue was developed in collaboration with the Eames Office and Dutch designer Hella Jongerius, who defined a new colour scheme that celebrates the spirit of the 1940s and ’50s while giving the ESU a fresh, contemporary character. The ESU Bookcase is somewhat narrower than the ESU Shelf and fitted with drawers and sliding doors for practical enclosed storage. Recommended for domestic use only.

Please note: due to the size of these units, delivery is on a pallet. This will be a kerbside delivery — you will be responsible for disposal of the pallet.

Specifications

• Dimensions — W120 × D43 × H148cm
• Shelves — Birch plywood with maple face veneer (Poland and Finland), transparent lacquer finish
• Panels — Powder-coated aluminium
• Frame — Black powder-coated steel; height-adjustable legs
• Sliding doors — Moulded plywood, lacquered

Also available: ESU 1 HU, ESU 2 HU, ESU 3 HU and ESU 4 HU.

Designed as a companion to the Vitra Eames Desk Unit EDU. Part of the Vitra Storage Solutions and Vitra Home Office collections.