design within reach cube

Design Within Reach: Cube

By Olivia JonesMarch 3, 2026

The Design Within Reach Cube, a brainchild of renowned designers Charles and Ray Eames, is more than just a furniture piece; it's an icon of mid-century modern design. This article delves into the history, design elements, and enduring appeal of this timeless piece.

Born out of a desire to create affordable, well-designed furniture for the masses, the Eameses introduced the Aluminum Group in 1958, including the now-famous Eames Aluminum Management Chair, or 'The Cube'.

The Design Evolution

The Cube's design is a testament to the Eameses' commitment to innovation and functionality. Initially designed for office environments, its clean lines and ergonomic form quickly found favor in residential spaces.

three illuminated cubes on the floor in a hallway

four different colored cubes sitting on the floor in front of a couch and coffee table

Over the decades, the Cube has undergone subtle revisions, with the introduction of new colors and materials. Yet, its core design remains unchanged, a testament to its enduring appeal and timeless aesthetic.

Iconic Design Elements

The Cube's design is characterized by its minimalist aesthetic, with a seat and backrest formed from a single piece of aluminum. This not only reduces material usage but also creates a sleek, uncluttered look.

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four different colored blocks sitting on top of each other in front of a white background

The chair's cantilever base, another signature feature, provides stability and allows for easy movement. The base's design also contributes to the chair's lightweight feel, making it easy to move around.

Versatility in Application

The Cube's simplicity and adaptability have made it a staple in various settings. From corporate offices to contemporary homes, its clean lines and neutral color palette ensure it blends seamlessly with diverse interior styles.

Its versatility extends to its functionality. The Cube is available with or without arms, and with a range of bases, including casters for easy mobility. It can be used as a task chair, a side chair, or even as a dining chair.

a lime green stool on a white background

six different views of an object made out of cubes and shapes that appear to have been folded together

an architectural model of a house on a black surface with white walls and flooring

several different colored legos stacked on top of each other in front of a door

an abstractly designed sculpture with white cubes and trees in the backgroud

an empty white box sitting in the middle of a plain room with light coming through it

The Cube's Enduring Appeal

The Cube's enduring popularity can be attributed to its balance of form and function. It's a chair that's as comfortable to sit in as it is pleasing to the eye.

Moreover, the Cube's design is a reflection of its time, embodying the mid-century modern aesthetic that continues to influence design today. Its simplicity and functionality resonate with contemporary design sensibilities, ensuring its continued relevance.

Celebrating a Design Classic

In 2018, to celebrate the Cube's 60th anniversary, Design Within Reach launched a special edition of the chair. The anniversary edition featured a new, deep blue colorway, a nod to the Eameses' love for bold hues.

a living room with a couch, bookshelf and rug on the floor in front of it

a stack of crates sitting next to a wooden chair

an orange cube shaped shelf on a white background

a room that has some wood on the wall and a potted plant next to it

an abstract sculpture made out of white cubes

three different colored blocks sitting next to each other

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two wooden cubes sitting next to each other on top of a cement floor in front of a white wall

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an assortment of different colored boxes sitting on top of a white surface with one open and the other closed

a couch made out of green cubes sitting on top of a white floor

This anniversary edition also highlighted the Cube's status as a design classic. It's a chair that has stood the test of time, remaining relevant and desirable in an ever-changing design landscape.

So, whether you're a design enthusiast or simply looking for a chair that combines comfort and style, the Design Within Reach Cube is a timeless choice. Its enduring appeal is a testament to the Eameses' design philosophy: 'The details are not the details. They make the design.'