Mid-century furniture by Ernest Race (Britain)

Ernest Race (1913-1964) was a British furniture and industrial designer known for his innovative and modernist designs. Born on May 16, 1913, in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Race studied interior design at the Bartlett School of Architecture in London. He gained prominence in the mid-20th century with his contributions to the world of design, particularly during the post-World War II period when there was a shift towards modernism and functionalism.

In the 1940s and 1950s, Race became associated with the Festival of Britain, a national exhibition held in 1951 to showcase British design, technology, and arts. His "Antelope" chair, which he designed for the festival's Regatta Restaurant, became an iconic piece and exemplified his interest in using materials like steel rod for lightweight and contemporary furniture. Ernest Race's work was characterized by a combination of functionality, simplicity, and an understanding of industrial production processes. He more... often utilized materials such as steel, plywood, and fabric to create aesthetically pleasing and practical designs.

Apart from his contributions to furniture design, Race also worked on various projects, including exhibition design and collaborations with architects. He was involved in the design of the Churchill Gardens housing estate in London during the 1950s. Ernest Race passed away on November 18, 1964, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and influential designs that continue to be appreciated in the world of mid-century modern furniture. less...