In 1949, Charles and Ray Eames developed an innovative system of freestanding, multifunctional shelves and desks. Similar to the simultaneously constructed Eames House, the designs adhered to the principles of industrial production: the Eames Storage Unit (ESU) and the Eames Desk Unit (EDU). In collaboration with the Eames Office and Dutch designer Hella Jongerius, a carefully defined new colour scheme was chosen to give the ESU a fresh and contemporary look while still celebrating the spirit of the 1940s and 50s.
Constructed with a sturdy metal frame, durable wooden shelves, and aluminium panels, the ESU promises longevity and resistance to everyday wear. Its thoughtful combination of shelves and compartments offers a variety of storage options – from books and stationery to decor. The ESU Shelf provides ample storage space, proving ideal for both large rooms and compact areas in need of efficient storage solutions. With its minimalist design, complemented by occasional pops of colour, the ESU Shelf seamlessly blends into various interiors.
It is also available as an ESU bookcase.
In 1949, Charles and Ray Eames developed an innovative system of freestanding, multifunctional shelves and desks. Similar to the simultaneously constructed Eames House, the designs adhered to the principles of industrial production: the Eames Storage Unit (ESU) and the Eames Desk Unit (EDU). In collaboration with the Eames Office and Dutch designer Hella Jongerius, a carefully defined new colour scheme was chosen to give the ESU a fresh and contemporary look while still celebrating the spirit of the 1940s and 50s.
Constructed with a sturdy metal frame, durable wooden shelves, and aluminium panels, the ESU promises longevity and resistance to everyday wear. Its thoughtful combination of shelves and compartments offers a variety of storage options – from books and stationery to decor. The ESU Shelf provides ample storage space, proving ideal for both large rooms and compact areas in need of efficient storage solutions. With its minimalist design, complemented by occasional pops of colour, the ESU Shelf seamlessly blends into various interiors.
It is also available as an ESU bookcase.
Eames Storage Unit ESU, Shelf
by
Vitra

This product is designed by
Charles and Ray Eames
Charles and Ray were a married couple who fundamentally changed the way furniture and buildings are designed and manufactured - playing a large role at the inception of the Modernist movement. They worked with Herman Miller and then later Vitra in the 1950’s to pioneer new technologies in moulded plywood, plastic resin and wire mesh products.
Charles was by highly influenced by the Finnish Architect Eliel Saarinen who encouraged Eames to move to Michigan to further study Architecture at the Cranbrook Academy of Art. He became friends with Eliel’s son Eero and together they created a prize-winning furniture entry for New York’s MOMA museum ‘Organic Design in Home Furnishings’ competition. Ray Eames was born as...